large numbers of youngsters attended the ‘Know Your Army’ fair at Mahindra Ground on Sunday. The fair which provided a platform for the youth for knowing about the armed forces of the country ended on Sunday.
In his inaugural address the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Golden Key Division, Major General SC Mohanty said that the fair is an effort to develop awareness among the local populace and to motivate the youth to join the Indian Army. He hoped that the fair would be appreciated by the students and many among them would make armed forces as their profession.
The youngsters showed keen interest in the equipment kept on the display. large number of youths was seen at the stall where the armed forces personnel informed about career in the army.
A combined military band display during the opening ceremony drew applause from those attending the function. A khukri dance of the army jawans carrying khukris drew applause from the audience.
The weapons particularly T -72 tanks, hand held thermal imagers, INSAS rifles, Sniper rifle, battle field surveillance radar, rocket launchers, 81 mm mortar and flame launchers displayed on the occasion evinced keen interest of visitors particularly students.
One of a senior officer of army associated with fair said that by holding such fairs the common people come to know about its armed forces.
Rakesh Shah a class IX student said that the display of arms in the fair is very good and inspirational.
“It is my dream to serve the country by joining the armed forces of the country and the visiting the fair is definitely a big boost for me,’’ he said. Apart from the students common people also appeared enthused by wonderful display of arms and overall discipline.
“We are proud of our army and the entire nation is behind its armed forces personnel who don’t hesitate to sacrifice their lives for our safety.”
Such fairs provide a platform to give an insight into the life of army personnel and equipment they use.
The Fair would definitely inspire the youth to join army,’’ said Mahendra Rawat a teacher by profession.