By M S Nazki
The people of Pir Panjal have left an indelible mark in the annals of history through their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the borders, national security, and sovereignty of India. Their sacrifices and acts of valor are nothing short of legendary, etched deeply into the narrative of our nation’s defense. It is a well-established truth that history is shaped by the actions of those who rise to protect the land and its people, and the people of Pir Panjal have proven themselves to be among the unsung heroes of this remarkable journey.
Whenever the security of our borders, the integrity of our nation, or the safety of our sacred land has been threatened, particularly in Jammu and Kashmir, by the nefarious designs of terrorists from across the border, the people of Pir Panjal—specifically the districts of Rajouri and Poonch—have stood resolutely alongside the brave men and women of the Indian Armed Forces. In the face of such threats, they have responded with unmatched courage and determination, repelling every attempt to destabilize the peace and harmony of the region.
The people of Pir Panjal have never hesitated to defend their land from the clutches of those who seek to harm it. They have faced every challenge head-on, never backing down from the enemies who sought to inflict terror. In times of heightened conflict, when terrorists have tried to infiltrate and spread unrest, the resolute citizens of this region have fortified their communities, sacrificing their own comforts for the sake of their nation. In collaboration with the armed forces, they have driven out and neutralized the forces of terror that sought to invade their homeland.
Numerous brave souls from this land have made the ultimate sacrifice, and their legacy continues to inspire generations. One such example is the martyrdom of Aurangzeb, who was posthumously awarded the prestigious Shaurya Chakra for his valor in the line of duty. Recently, Havildar Abdul Hamid, hailing from Poonch, was also honored with the Shaurya Chakra, one of India’s highest military awards, for his extraordinary courage. These individuals, among many others, have made their mark not just on the national stage, but their stories have resonated worldwide.
There are countless other tales of heroism, often untold, of individuals from Pir Panjal who have fearlessly faced danger in defense of the nation. The people here have long expressed the need for a local Scots Battalion, yet this demand has often been overlooked by the authorities. Despite this, thousands of educated and motivated youth from the region are eager to serve their country, ready to join the Indian Armed Forces and contribute to the nation’s security. They stand ready, waiting for the opportunity to serve with honor.
The truth remains undeniable—the contributions and sacrifices made by the people of Pir Panjal in securing the borders of India are nothing short of heroic. Their selfless service, relentless courage, and deep love for their country deserve to be immortalized in the history books in golden letters. The people of Pir Panjal are, and will always be, a vital and cherished part of India’s defense and legacy.
