Indian Army marks Battle of Shalateng with veterans rally and student tour
The Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo) held a commemorative programme at Sharifabad Military Garrison on November 4.
The Indian Army’s Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo) organised an Ex-Servicemen Rally and an educational outreach programme at the Sharifabad Military Garrison on November 4, according to WION. The event commemorated the historic Battle of Shalateng.
Major General Tushar Sharma, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo), presided over the programme. The gathering included approximately 400 ex-servicemen and 200 students and teachers from Army Goodwill Schools located in the Baramulla, Kupwara, Bandipora and Ganderbal districts.
The commemoration highlighted the role of the 3 PARA Special Forces in the Battle of Shalateng on November 7, 1947. The unit was later granted the Battle Honour ‘Shalateng’ for its involvement in the engagement.
The rally included helpdesks to assist veterans and their families with Central and Jammu and Kashmir Government welfare schemes, pension services and resettlement. Representatives from JAK LI Records, the Defence Pension Disbursement Office (DPDO) Srinagar, the Zila Sainik Welfare Office (ZSWO) Srinagar and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) provided guidance on healthcare and entitlements.
Students from Army Goodwill Schools participated in an educational tour to view the military site and study the history of the battle. The event also featured a wreath-laying ceremony and cultural performances by the students.
Addressing the attendees, the Chief Guest emphasised the need to respect veterans and maintain the legacy of military history while building ties with the local community.