Fresh off the success of Operation Sindoor, the Indian Army’s porter recruitment drive in Jammu & Kashmir’s Mendhar sector has set off a wave of excitement among local youth. From Mendhar city to border villages like Mankot and Balnoi, young aspirants are lining up in large numbers to join as ‘defence porters’
The initiative aims to provide much-needed employment to unemployed youth in the border belt, giving them a livelihood and a direct connection with the Army. Many locals have welcomed the move, calling it a golden opportunity in an area where jobs are scarce.
Asif Mahmood, one of the aspirants, told IANS that the mood among the candidates is “excited and energised” as they undergo the recruitment process. Mazhar Iqbal, another local, called the drive “an important opportunity” for people living near the Line of Control (LoC), adding that such recruitments—held two to three times a year—are a vital source of income for jobless youth.
Iqbal also stressed that these openings not only bring economic relief but also steer young people away from drug abuse and other social evils. He urged the Army to conduct such drives more frequently and increase the number of vacancies.
Participants praised the Army for standing with the people and hailed the success of Operation Sindoor, saying the entire nation stands behind its soldiers. The overwhelming response from the Mendhar sector has made one thing clear—the youth are ready, willing, and proud to step forward whenever the Army calls.
