Indian Army Organises National Integration Tour for Students from Rajouri and Poonch to Pune under Operation Sadbhavana
Indian Army Organises National Integration Tour for Students from Rajouri and Poonch to Pune under Operation Sadbhavana
Pune | 09 November 2025: As part of Operation Sadbhavana, the Indian Army has organised a National Integration Tour (NIT) for 20 students and 4 teachers from the border districts of Rajouri and Poonch (Jammu – Kashmir). The tour, conducted by the Ace of Spades Division under the aegis of the White Knight Corps, is being held from 03 to 14 November 2025 with the aim of fostering national integration and providing youth from border areas first-hand exposure to India’s diversity and development.
The tour was flagged off from Rajouri on 03 November 2025 and will cover Pune, Nasik and Ahilyanagar. As part of the itinerary, the students are visiting premier defence and educational institutions including the National Defence Academy (NDA), Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Armoured Corps Centre & School, School of Artillery, Symbiosis International University, and ILS Law College.
During their visit to Headquarters Southern Command, Pune on 08 November 2025, the students interacted with Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command. The Army Commander shared his experiences on leadership, discipline, and nation-building, motivating the students to pursue their aspirations with dedication and contribute meaningfully to the nation’s progress. The interaction served as an inspiring experience for the young participants, many of whom expressed their desire to join the Armed Forces.
The students also visited the Southern Command National War Memorial, a solemn monument commemorating the valour and supreme sacrifices of soldiers who laid down their lives in the line of duty. The visit instilled deep respect and pride among the students, enhancing their understanding of the courage, selfless service, and dedication that form the foundation of the Indian Armed Forces.
The initiative seeks to broaden the horizons of students from remote areas, enabling them to appreciate India’s technological and educational progress while strengthening their emotional connect with the nation. The participants conveyed heartfelt gratitude to the Indian Army for this unique learning experience, which they described as an eye-opening and motivational journey.
Operation Sadbhavana stands as a testament to the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to national integration and youth empowerment in border and remote regions. Through such initiatives, the Army continues to play a pivotal role in promoting unity, development, and nation-building across the length and breadth of the country.
***
Ankush Chavan, PRO, Defence, Pune.