Opinion | The Indian Army’s Role in Youth Building: A Kashmiri Perspective

The Indian Army’s role in Kashmir goes far beyond its duties of maintaining peace and security. The Army is deeply involved in youth development, through educational programs, skill-building initiatives, sports activities, and leadership training.

The Indian Army’s role in Kashmir has often been discussed primarily through the lens of security, conflict, and peacekeeping. However, beyond these aspects, there is a less explored yet equally important side of the story—the positive influence the Army has on the youth of Kashmir. The Army’s involvement in shaping the lives of young Kashmiris goes beyond its primary security functions. For many in Kashmir, the Army is not just a symbol of authority but an institution that helps foster discipline, personal development, and offers life-changing opportunities. In the picturesque yet conflict-ridden valleys of Kashmir, young people often face the challenge of navigating between tradition, uncertainty, and limited career prospects. It is in this challenging environment that the Indian Army has made efforts to guide the youth toward more constructive paths. Through various programs aimed at youth engagement, the Army plays a crucial role in empowering young people, teaching them valuable skills, and encouraging them to dream beyond their immediate circumstances.
One of the most significant ways the Army impacts Kashmiri youth is through its educational initiatives. The Army has established several Army Goodwill Schools throughout the Jammu & Kashmir, providing quality education to children, particularly in remote and conflict-affected areas where other educational opportunities might be sparse. These schools offer a safe, distraction-free environment for children to study, away from the turmoil and unrest that often characterize daily life in Kashmir. The Army also organizes educational workshops, competitions, and career counseling sessions, helping young people explore various career options such as defense, engineering, administration, and more. These programs provide essential resources and guidance, helping Kashmir’s youth broaden their horizons and pursue their dreams. In addition to educational initiatives, the Army has a vital role in skill development in Kashmir, where employment opportunities are often scarce. Through programs like Sadbhavana (Goodwill), the Army runs vocational training centers that equip young people with practical skills such as carpentry, tailoring, computer literacy, and more. These skills provide young Kashmiris with the opportunity to improve their employability and gain a sense of independence, which is especially important in a region with limited job prospects. Beyond this, the Army also conducts recruitment rallies, offering an opportunity for young men and women from Kashmir to join the armed forces. For many, the Army is not just a job—it represents stability, respect, and an opportunity to serve the nation, all while gaining valuable life experiences and career growth. The Army’s efforts to engage with youth are also evident in its emphasis on sports and adventure activities. In a place where the youth often struggle with emotional and psychological challenges due to the surrounding socio-political climate, sports provide a much-needed outlet. The Army organizes sports competitions, tournaments, and adventure camps, including activities such as trekking, mountaineering, and other outdoor pursuits. These events not only promote physical fitness but also teach qualities such as leadership, teamwork, perseverance, and resilience. For many Kashmiri youth, these programs become an avenue for self-expression, helping them channel their energy in positive ways. In these activities, young people from various communities come together, which fosters unity, reduces divisiveness, and creates friendships that transcend social and political barriers.
Moreover, the Army’s involvement in Kashmir also plays a key role in instilling discipline, responsibility, and a sense of purpose in the youth. With high levels of unemployment and political discontent, some young Kashmiris may feel directionless, sometimes gravitating toward extremist ideologies or engaging in destructive behavior. Through initiatives like the National Cadet Corps (NCC), the Army provides young Kashmiris with an alternative narrative. The NCC, in particular, teaches leadership, discipline, and teamwork. These qualities go a long way in shaping responsible citizens and leaders who are not only prepared for their personal futures but also equipped to contribute to the betterment of their communities. The Indian Army’s efforts extend beyond individual development—they also play a crucial role in bridging the divides that exist within Kashmir. The region’s history of conflict and division has often resulted in fractured relationships between communities, political factions, and even generations. By engaging with young Kashmiris through its various programs, the Army contributes to breaking down these barriers. Interactions between the Army and the youth help foster trust, mutual respect, and a deeper understanding of each other. For many young Kashmiris, these programs offer a chance to see the Army in a new light—not just as a force that maintains peace, but as a positive force actively contributing to the development and welfare of the region.
While the Indian Army has had a significant role in shaping the lives of many young people in Kashmir, challenges still remain. There is also a growing need for the Army to focus more on education, entrepreneurship, and skill-building, as these areas have the potential to uplift Kashmir’s youth in a more lasting and profound way. As more young people in Kashmir look for ways to break free from cycles of unemployment and despair, offering them the tools to succeed in a rapidly changing world will be key to long-term peace and prosperity. gThe Indian Army’s role in Kashmir goes far beyond its duties of maintaining peace and security. The Army is deeply involved in youth development, through educational programs, skill-building initiatives, sports activities, and leadership training. These efforts help young Kashmiris stay away from negative influences and equip them with the necessary tools to build better futures for themselves.
Writer can be reached at syedjahanzeeb2@gmail.com