New Delhi, Jan 6:
In a landmark moment for the youth of Jammu and Kashmir’s border regions, a delegation of 22 college students from Poonch met the Hon’ble President of India, Smt. Droupadi Murmu, at Rashtrapati Bhavan today.
The meeting stands as the crowning achievement of the National Integration Tour (NIT), a special initiative organized by the Poonch Brigade under the aegis of the Ace of Spades Division (White Knight Corps).
The tour, which was flagged off from the border district on January 3, 2026, by Brigadier Sachindra Joshi, VSM, aims to bridge the gap between remote frontier areas and the national mainstream.
The delegation consists of 13 boys and 9 girls, all students of Shri Krishan Chander Government Degree College, Poonch. For many, this trip represents their first major journey outside the district, offering them a direct connection to the country’s highest leadership and democratic institutions.
Key Highlights of the Visit
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Interaction with the President: Students shared their aspirations and experiences of living in border areas with President Murmu. The interaction emphasized the role of youth in nation-building and personal responsibility.
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Meeting Military Leadership: In Delhi, the students also engaged with Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar, AVSM, VSM, GOC Delhi Area, who encouraged the group to pursue excellence in their respective fields to serve the nation.
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National Heritage Exploration: The itinerary is a blend of history and patriotism, including visits to: The National War Memorial (to pay respects to the fallen heroes), PM Sangrahalaya & National Museum (to understand India’s political and cultural evolution) and The Golden Temple & Jallianwala Bagh (the next scheduled stops in Punjab).
The Indian Army’s National Integration Tours are designed to provide “meaningful exposure” to youth who grow up in geographically isolated or conflict-sensitive areas. By facilitating these interactions, the Army seeks to foster a sense of belonging and national pride.
“This initiative is not just a trip; it is an investment in the future of our border regions. Seeing the capital and meeting our leaders instills a sense of purpose in these bright young minds.” — Brigadier Sachindra Joshi, VSM
After concluding their engagements in the national capital, the students will travel to Amritsar to experience the spiritual serenity of the Golden Temple and the historic significance of the Wagah Border before returning to Poonch.
