Learnings from recent visits to Kashmir

Through the Social Impact Projects that we are undertaking we get to collaborate with various Indian Army units across Kashmir. There is so much to learn as we collaborate with Army Units. There is a big mandate of community development by bringing in social impact projects that can skill, upskill and get the youth ready in line with requirements of the industry. Kashmir is booming again, which means that tourists have started coming in again, and need for skilled man power goes up. Due to sensitive, and close to border geographical location, there is also high unemployment in various pockets of the state. Lots of youth also get misdirected, and hence it becomes very important to keep them on the right track, skill them the right away, so that they can not only stand and earn a living for themselves but also for their families. 

As we get to work with Army, we learn various qualities that we can imbibe, learn from them and thereby also incorporate in our lives. Some are as follows – Time management – always being on time, no excuses allowed. Listening to the seniors, even if there is difference of opinion, same is conveyed in a very polite and respectful manner. Fitness – You get to see the officials wake up early in the morning to pump gym and workout. Now key point to note is that this is being done so that they can be fit and active to protect our borders. For us as well, staying and becoming fit should not be merely about looking good, but it should also be linked to some activity/cause/purpose that we are taking up to benefit/make the society better. The time that one gets after a rigorous day, one also relaxes in a very light hearted manner. The relaxation though is through heavy workouts, music, meditation, reading books, banter with fellow colleagues. 

Patience, persistence, lots of will power and mental toughness, can’t be taking soft options can be seen. Community engagement is very important, and hence technical work through social impact efforts are useful and impactful. 

Strengthening the borders of Northern Kashmir through meaningful engagements, coming up with opportunities to promote local tourism. 

Loading the day, staying busy and utilizing every second is important and precious. If you find excuses, alternative ways to do a task or make a task easier then the same excuse comes and bite you and put you in a really difficult position. 

There is a saying that Army goes by – Respect all, Suspect all – this is so important that it teaches us the art of always staying alert and on toes. We cannot be in dazed situation, as that is when things slide beneath us. Very important to stay aware and mindful about the intent of people around us.

Things like – I was on leave, I did not know, I am new to the place etc. are not allowed to be said, which again shows that level of planning, alertness is so important and crucial. 

The above can be useful for all us to implement in our daily lives. Sometimes one also has to let go of things and people who they like with a heavy heart to stay committed to the cause to serve and strengthen the country!

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