Handwara Feb 24: (KNS) The 17 Infantry Brigade of Army on Wednesday organized  a day long  skill Development program for Mawer youth in which large number of young man participated.

According to statement issued here, there is a pertinent need for constant support and engagement of the youth of Kashmir, in their struggle against violence and chaos, the lack of opportunities, necessary guidance and positive mentorship. 

The Indian Army has taken a proactive role towards providing some such support to the beleaguered locals.
  
In our humble endeavour to reach out to the Awaam and carry out an awareness campaign regarding skill development, employment opportunities and counselling the youth regarding the same, a fun and engaging initiative was undertaken by the Naugam Bde, wherein the Youth atom was organised in the Mawer Valley for the youth. The initiative saw widespread participation from the enthusiastic youth of the local villages with aspirations and in need of guidance.

The initiative was conducted in three phases with an initial skill development and employment awareness session wherein:

A session on Employment opportunities in the Indian Army was conducted by the ARO Srinagar .

Employment opportunities in various civil domains were discussed by Capt  Joshi.

A session on the 'Skill Development and Employment Initiative' under the programme 'Awaam Ki Aastha' conducted by 'Aditya Sidha, Foundation Group in conjunction with Naugam Brigade was also carried out.

There was a general discussion with the youth post this session regarding their aspirations, the opportunities and hindrances which lie before them. Dynamic and contemporary insights were revealed by the youth regarding their hopes and dreams. 

The final stage of the engagement witnessed intense participation of the youth in games and sports activities such as Tug of War, Arm Wrestling and Javelin Throw. This was followed by high tea, after which the programme proceeded with the screening of a movie and positive videos. The initiative was concluded with the prize distribution ceremony and distribution of brochures of the employment awareness drive.  

The rendezvous with the local youth through this event witnessed widespread participation and was lauded by the youth for its progressive and positive agenda. The event was aimed towards a comprehensive reach out to the youth of the Valley and mentor them regarding opportunities before them. The programme was reflective of the Naugam Bde’s extensive engagement through a number of such events with the simple intent to better the lives of the common Kashmiri youth. This was such a humble effort to wean the youth from unemployment and violence, towards prosperity and peace.(KNS)