- Baramulla-Uri highway witnessed overnight traffic jams
- Hundreds spend night in open sky
- Over 300 vacancies to be filled up during the process
Gantmulla, Nov 11: The Army recruitment rally in Baramulla witnessed a massive turnout, with thousands of young aspirants lining up for a chance to join the Indian Army. The overwhelming crowd led to overnight traffic jams along the Baramulla-Uri highway.
Many aspirants spent the night under the open sky, waiting for their turn to participate in the recruitment process. The Territorial Army’s 162 INF BN (TA) JAK LI is conducting the rally, which will run until November 27, to fill over 300 vacancies.
The drive began with candidates from Baramulla being screened on the first two days. On November 13, the recruitment process will focus on aspirants from Ganderbal and Budgam, followed by Kupwara and Bandipora on November 14. November 16 and 17 have been designated as reserve days to complete the recruitment process.
Mohammad Younis, a 22-year-old from Tapper in Baramulla says he is first in his family to aspire to join the Army, and arrived in Baramulla a day early to make sure he was ready.
“My family has always supported me in pursuing this goal. They know it is not just about the job but about standing up for something larger than myself. To me, the Army symbolizes strength and unity. Joining the Army is my way of contributing to the nation’s security and making my family proud,” he added.
Many aspirants, waiting overnight for their turn under the open sky, spoke about their struggles with unemployment.
Aabid Rashid, another aspirant from Handwara said that the job market is tough right now. He has been trying to find work for years with no success. Joining the Army is not only a chance to serve the country but also a way to secure my livelihood and support my family,” he said.
“Unemployment is a serious issue here. We all want to work, to build a better future, but the opportunities are few and far between. This recruitment drive is a rare chance for many of us to turn things around,” he added.
Sohail Mir, a 24-year-old from Sopore, said the lack of job opportunities is pushing many of us into a corner. I have applied for multiple jobs but have not had any luck. This recruitment rally is a ray of hope, not just for me but for thousands of others. The Army offers stability that we desperately need, he said.
“It is frustrating to see so many educated youths sitting idle because there are no jobs. I completed my degree two years ago and have been struggling to find work ever since. Joining the Army is a way to secure a future for myself and my family. It is more than just a job and it is my dream to wear khaki,” he added.
Another aspirant Imran Khan from Kupwara said serving the country is a great honor, the financial security that comes with a career in the Army is a big motivation. “In these times, a government job offers stability. I want to provide for my family, and the Army gives me a chance to do that while also serving my country,” he said.
Meanwhile the massive influx of aspirants also brought life to the usually quiet Sheeri Market, located a few kilometres from the recruitment site. As soon as the rally was announced, the market transformed into a bustling hub.
Shops remained open around the clock, catering to the needs of the young men who had traveled from far and wide. From grocery stores to street vendors selling hot tea and snacks, Sheeri market and adjoining markets were abuzz with activity.
The Baramulla-Uri highway witnessed massive overnight jams as aspirants from many parts of Kashmir were seen participating in the rally. The Army had made arrangements for vehicles coming from several districts in the outskirts of Baramulla.
Several photoshop and printing shops sprang up overnight, offering services to print out essential documents, certificates, and application forms.
“We have been open day and night,” said Imran Sheikh, owner of a local photoshop. Aspirants need their documents in order, and we are happy to help them in any way we can. This recruitment rally has brought a lot of business to the area, and we’re doing our part to assist,” he said.
Local residents offered temporary accommodations as well, welcoming the young men into their homes. The hospitality of the locals created a supportive environment for the aspirants, with many praising the warmth and generosity they experienced.
Meanwhile aspirants must undergo a series of physical and mental tests, including endurance runs, fitness checks, and medical examinations. Those who pass these initial stages will then face written exams and interviews. The competition is fierce, but the youth remain hopeful.
As per notification, the vacancies available include 274 positions for Soldier (GD), 3 for Soldier (Clerks), 11 for Soldier (Chef), 1 each for Soldier (Chef Special), Soldier (Cook Mess), Soldier (Equipment Repairer), Soldier (Steward), Soldier (Artisan Wood Work), and Soldier (Tailor). Additionally, there are 6 positions for Soldier (Dresser), 7 for Soldier (Housekeeper), and 6 for Soldier (Washerman).
