In Kashmir, Students Joining Cadet Corps In Growing Numbers

Young people in Kashmir are increasingly joining the National Cadet Corps (NCC) as interest in joining militant groups has plummeted. Official data indicates a significant decline in local recruitment for terror outfits, with no new recruits reported in the Valley for 2025.
Why it matters
This shift suggests a major change in the socio-political landscape of Kashmir, moving from conflict-driven youth engagement toward integration with national institutions.
Gone are the days when youngsters in Kashmir were drawn towards terror ranks. A new and positive trend is now visible on the ground.Across the Kashmir Valley, a quiet revolution is underway. Young boys and girls are joining the National Cadet Corps (NCC) in growing numbers."Since childhood I wanted to join the Army to serve both the people of Kashmir and Mother India," says Bintul Huda from Kupwara, a district long known as an infiltration route.Asked if she faces backlash at home, Bintul is firm: "We are the new generation. We want to script change."Khushboo Jan, another young NCC cadet from Nawakadal, Srinagar, echoes her sentiment.
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