Record turnout at Army's recruitment rally in Manipur
Last updated on: August 02, 2012 21:50 IST
Manipur is viewed in the rest of the country as a state dogged by insurgency where militants dictate terms in every spheres of life and most of its youth are associated with one of those secessionist insurgent outfits operating in the troubled far-flung state.
However, the Indian Army has witnessed a completely reverse picture during a mega recruitment rally organised by it in the Senapati district of the state during July 21 to 30. The Army has been overwhelmed by the massive response of the youth to the recruitment rally which reflects that the youth of the state are hardly alienated mentally from the rest of the country.
"It was a massive turn up. The Army recruitment rally saw a record turnout of 16,000 youth participating fervently in the hope of finding employment in the ranks of the Army. The colossal response of the populace strappingly asserts the growing aspirations of the youth to get fasten together with the mainstream of the country, and that they have become wary of insurgency," a senior official said.
The enthusiasm with which the youth participated in the recruitment rally is of note and depicts the changing perception of the environment towards the mainstream. It gleams at a responsive youth who are yearning to take on opportunities of employment and looking forward for development and peace in the region.
Major General Binoy Poonen, GOC 57 Mountain Division, pleased at the astounding response of the youth to the rally, has complimented the people of Senapati district, the civil administration, civil police, participants and the 59 Mountain Brigade for the peaceful conduct which steered the largest ever rally conducted in Manipur.
Defence public relations officer Lt Col SS Phogat said that the incident free rally that epitomisied the warmth and affection bestowed by people of Senapati, had indeed carved a heartwarming and nostalgic moment for the Army and the youth who participated in the recruitment.
People of Senapati came forward to provide basic amenities to the youth who came from all over Manipur irrespective of the tribal diversity. It was astounding to take notice of local vendors who kept their shops open even on Sunday to extend their support to the youth coming from far-flung areas of Manipur.
K Anurag
