On Christmas: Army plays Santa for kids in Kashmir

Larkipora (Kashmir), December 25

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Sepoy Gurvinder Singh of the Army’s 19 Rashtriya Rifles was given a new mission in Kashmir on Friday — ‘Mission Smile’.

His crisp olive greens gave way to fluffy red costume, assault rifle which always slings on shoulders was replaced by goddie bags and voila! “Fauji” Santa was ready to welcome kids from the valley for a day filled with fun with endless supplies of goodies, toffees, chocolates and some tips on their future and career.

The Rashtriya Rifles encampment at Larkipora, 65 km from Srinagar, was buzzing with activities on Christmas with thumping of boots replaced by giggles of children from neighbouring localities of Wessu, Pethdialgam, Brenty, Kokernag, Vailu and Gadol who were invited here by the Commanding Officer as a gesture to connect with locales.

“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 Col Dharmendra Yadav, commanding officer of the 19 Rashtriya Rifles of the Army’s Victor Force which looks after the militancy-hit areas of south Kashmir.

He said the unit deployed its Sepoy to become Santa and distribute small gifts to the kids and school-going children who were also counselled for career development.

Addressing the children, Major Rahul Jaeenger asked the kids to clear their doubts and focus on their dreams.  Lt Col Manpreet Singh feels that connecting with the kids was nice and it’s better to catch them young and showcase the world to them. PTI