Jammu, May 20 (KNO): The ex-servicemen of the country, particularly native of Jammu and Kashmir, are considered as a critical force for national building and tackling the challenge of internal security.
As per government data available with the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), the areas and villages where ex-servicemen remain active after retirement witnessed less cases of radicalization and drug abuse while youth of these areas also found career oriented.
The data also revealed that ex-servicemen in J&K have a unique understanding of the country's security threats as well as problem in terror hit Jammu and Kashmir which equipped them with unique skill of problem-solving skills, leadership abilities, and resilience
Zila Sanik Board Jammu officials said that if given suitable opportunity post retirement, the ex-servicemen could channelize their skills and knowledge to strengthen national security.
“Ex-servicemen can play a pivotal role in intelligence gathering, motivating youth to join armed forces and help military to felicitate outreach programs in terror hit areas,” an official from Zila Sainik Board said.
He said in J&K has a critical role to play in nation building. Their military training and discipline, national security expertise, employment opportunities, and community development initiatives make them valuable contributors to the growth and development of a nation, he said.
“The Ex-servicemen are individuals who have retired from military service and they possess unique skills, knowledge, and experiences that can be utilized in nation building especially in J&K,” said retired Subedar Major (SM) Bishamber Dass Sharma from Akhnoor Jammu while advocating for better and decision making positions for ex-servicemen in government sector.
“A retired soldier brings military training and discipline as one of fundamental attributes to the society after undergoing rigorous training, “he said adding, “Government should utilize their training, which is transferable to various sectors, including governance, law enforcement, and emergency response”.
Another ex-servicemen, Honorary Captain Moti Ram from Bahu Fort said that an army veteran can contribute to community development through various initiatives such as mentoring programs, youth outreach, and poverty reduction programs. He said their leadership skills and experience make them great mentors and role models for youth in their communities.
By working with the government and other security agencies, they can provide valuable insights on how to counter terrorism, cyber-attacks, and other threats to national security—(KNO)