The Army’s Commitment to the People of Kashmir: Recognition, Dedication, and Progress

In the picturesque region of Kashmir, the Indian Army has long been associated with ensuring peace and security in a land ravaged by decades of conflict. While the primary duty of soldiers is to safeguard the nation’s borders and maintain internal security, their role has evolved in recent years. The soldiers are no longer viewed solely as protectors of land; they are increasingly being seen as pillars of the local community, contributing positively to the growth, development, and social fabric of the areas where they are stationed. This transformation is evident in the remarkable efforts the Army has made to reach out to the people in ways that extend far beyond traditional military duties.

One of the most significant recent examples of this shift in perception is the “Shaan-e-Varmul” award ceremony held in Baramulla on January 15, 2025. Organized by the Dagger Division of the Chinar Corps, this event recognized and honored individuals from Baramulla who have made outstanding contributions to society in various fields. Through this initiative, the Army has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to not only securing the region but also uplifting the people through community engagement, education, and development programs. In doing so, they have transformed the conventional notion of the Army as simply a force of enforcement into a vital partner in the region’s progress.

The Army’s Role Beyond the Battlefield A New Perspective in Kashmir

The image of the Army as an institution meant for warfare, violence, and repression has been a notion that has clouded its reputation in many parts of the world. In Kashmir, this misconception was particularly ingrained due to the prolonged period of insurgency and unrest that the region witnessed. The general populace often viewed the Army with suspicion, associating them with authority and control, rather than as fellow citizens working towards the collective betterment of the society. However, this perception is undergoing a significant transformation.

The Shaan-e-Varmul event is a testament to how the Army has sought to bridge the gap between the military and the civilian population. The initiative is a departure from traditional military operations, shifting focus from combat to community building. The Army’s involvement in the recognition and celebration of local heroes is unprecedented. It is not just about honoring military valor; it is about acknowledging the tireless efforts of individuals who dedicate themselves selflessly to the betterment of society.

Recognizing the Real Heroes of Baramulla ; Shaan-e-Varmul Event

Held at Thimayya Hall in Baramulla, the Shaan-e-Varmul event was nothing short of a groundbreaking moment in the history of Kashmir. The award ceremony recognized individuals from various fields, including education, culture, sports, innovation, healthcare, and philanthropy, who have made a lasting impact on the local community.

The event was a clear reflection of the Army’s recognition of the vital role that every citizen, regardless of profession or background, plays in making Kashmir a better place to live. The awardees included:

• Nassar Ahmad Shah (NisarAzam), who was honored for his contributions to the preservation of Kashmiri culture through literature. His poetry collection, “PatteLazi Zoon Daras,” won him national acclaim and helped preserve the essence of Kashmiri heritage.
• Mehak Khursheed, the first female baker-chef from Baramulla, who has empowered women by promoting entrepreneurship and skilling women in the far-flung areas of Kashmir and beyond. Her work has inspired many women to become self-reliant and start their own businesses.
• Jenab Mushtaq Ahmed Bhat, a prominent industrialist who has contributed immensely to the social responsibility sector in Baramulla, ensuring that wealth and success are shared with those in need.
• Father Suresh Britto, the principal of St. Joseph’s School, who has provided education and holistic development to over 12,000 students in Baramulla, nurturing future generations to contribute to society in meaningful ways.
• Momin Mehraj, a young boy recognized for his bravery during a devastating fire in Sumarwan village, who risked his life to save others.
• Miss Snowbar Akhter, a martial arts champion from Baramulla, who has earned national recognition through her achievements in sports.

This is not an exhaustive list, but it gives a glimpse into the diversity of talent, dedication, and selflessness that exists within the Baramulla district. The Army’s role in facilitating such an event underscores its commitment to fostering community pride and recognizing those who are quietly contributing to the betterment of society.

The event, organized on Army Day, was attended by notable dignitaries, including local leaders, military officials, and citizens of Baramulla, all of whom gathered to honor the unsung heroes of the region. The ceremony was not just a symbolic gesture but an acknowledgment of the hard work and sacrifice of individuals who have made lasting changes in their communities.

The Role of the Army in Community Building and Social Engagement

While the Shaan-e-Varmul award ceremony is a major highlight, it is only one of many ways the Army has contributed to the development of Kashmir. Over the past few years, the Army has increasingly engaged in activities that are not limited to its traditional role of ensuring peace and security. The Army has begun to reach into all sectors of society, from education to health, from culture to sports, and from poverty alleviation to skill development.

One of the key initiatives launched by the Army is the Chinar Yuva program, which focuses on skill training for the youth in Kashmir. This program provides the youth with opportunities to learn new skills, improve their employability, and become self-reliant.  World’s Largest Kashmiri Folk Dance with over 10,000 girls from Baramulla participating in it was also organized and managed by the Indian army. This event not only set a world record but also served to highlight the importance of cultural preservation and community unity.

In addition to skill-building programs, the Army has also been actively involved in the distribution of food grains and clothes to the underprivileged in far-flung areas of Kashmir. Their outreach to these remote regions has ensured that even the most marginalized communities receive the support they need to survive and thrive. This outreach is not just limited to material support; it extends to emotional support as well, as the Army has worked to build trust with the local population through consistent engagement and service.

 A New Narrative of the Army in Kashmir

The transformation of the Army’s image in Kashmir is not merely a result of these initiatives. It is also due to the changing attitude of the local population towards the military. Over the years, the people of Kashmir have come to see the Army not as an occupying force, but as a part of their own community—an organization that shares in their hopes, struggles, and aspirations.

In the past, the image of the Army was largely shaped by the region’s turbulent history. Soldiers were often seen through the lens of security and enforcement, tasked with maintaining order in a region marked by insurgency and militancy. However, the Army’s active involvement in social programs and community engagement has begun to rewrite this narrative. Today, the Army is viewed as a force that works to improve the lives of the people of Kashmir.

The notion of the Army as a brutal and oppressive force has dissipated. Instead, the Army has become a part of the everyday lives of the people, reaching into schools, hospitals, villages, and cultural centers. Its efforts have helped build a bridge between the civilian population and the military, fostering a sense of trust and cooperation.

 A Lasting Legacy of Service and Dedication

The recognition of local heroes through events like Shaan-e-Varmul is just the beginning of a much larger journey. The Army’s efforts to build a strong, prosperous, and peaceful Kashmir go beyond security measures and extend into every facet of life. Whether it is providing skill training, promoting cultural preservation, delivering essential supplies to remote areas, or honoring individuals who have made significant contributions to society, the Army has become a vital force for good in Kashmir.

In the end, the Shaan-e-Varmul event serves as a poignant reminder of the power of community, the value of service, and the importance of recognizing those who dedicate their lives to making the world a better place. Through their actions, the Army has shown that their role in Kashmir is not limited to the battlefield; they are also builders of peace, advocates for development, and champions of the people.

By honoring individuals who have selflessly dedicated themselves to the welfare of society, the Army is not only shaping the future of Kashmir but also creating a legacy of service and goodwill that will continue to resonate for generations to come. The people of Kashmir can now see the Army for what it truly is: a force of compassion, dedication, and unwavering commitment to the collective progress of the region. This is a new chapter in the history of Kashmir—a chapter of unity, growth, and shared purpose.