On Christmas, Army plays Santa for kids in Kashmir
What's the story
Sepoy Gurvinder Singh of the Army's 19 Rashtriya Rifles was given a new mission in Kashmir on Friday, 'Mission Smile.' His olive greens gave way to a fluffy red costume, the assault rifle was replaced by goodie bags. Fauji Santa was ready to welcome kids from the Valley for a fun-filled day with supplies of goodies, toffees, chocolates along with some career tips.
Quote
The idea is to see the kids smile: Colonel Yadav
"We are working under the guidance of GOC of Victor Force and connecting with locals. The idea is to see the kids smile and that's what we are doing," said Colonel Dharmendra Yadav, commanding officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles of the Army's Victor Force.
Distribution of gifts
Sepoy became Santa and distributed small gifts to kids
The Rashtriya Rifles encampment at Larkipora, 65 km from Srinagar, was filled with children from neighboring localities of Wessu, Pethdialgam, Brenty, Kokernag, Vailu, and Gadol who were invited by the Commanding Officer to connect with locals. "The unit deployed its Sepoy to become Santa and distribute small gifts to the kids and school-going children who were also counseled for career development," Yadav said.
Connection
'Every child has specialty which needs to be toned up'
Major Rahul Jaeenger asked the kids to clear their doubts and focus on their dreams. "Every child has some specialty which needs to be toned up," he said. Lt. Col. Manpreet Singh feels connecting with kids was nice and it's better to catch them young and showcase the world to them. Subedar Harkeerat Singh, a religious teacher, conveyed the importance of Christmas to them.