Pahalgam | September 11, 2026 ; Northern Army Commander Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C Northern Command, has reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to maintaining security in Jammu and Kashmir while contributing to nation-building, education and opportunities for the region’s youth.
Addressing an event at the Army Goodwill School (AGS), Pahalgam, in south Kashmir’s Anantnag district, Lt Gen Sharma said the Northern Command has a dual responsibility — ensuring a stable security environment and working closely with local communities to help shape a brighter future for young people.
🇮🇳 ‘Your Peace Is Our Purpose’
Speaking about the vision of ‘Viksit Bharat’, Lt Gen Sharma said Northern Command would remain committed to nation-building while ensuring peace and tranquillity in the region.
He emphasised the close relationship between the security forces and local communities, saying that trust and cooperation are essential to achieving broader development goals.
According to the Army Commander, Northern Command formations have, over the past three decades, worked not only to maintain security but also to remain connected with the people and provide opportunities for growth and development.
🎓 Focus on Technology-Driven Education
Lt Gen Sharma highlighted quality, technology-oriented and New Education Policy-aligned education as a key priority for the younger generation.
He praised students of Army Goodwill Schools for their achievements and cited their participation in a range of academic and innovation initiatives.
Among the achievements highlighted were:
🔹 AGS students undertaking internships with ISRO at Dehradun
🔹 More than 1,000 projects submitted at Innofest 2025
🔹 AGS Hanzik securing third position nationally
🔹 AGS Wuzur securing sixth position nationally at Young Scientists India 2025
🔹 Students participating in ISRO YUVIKA and the Young Creators League
🔹 Participation in spelling, mathematics, science and sporting competitions
🔹 AGS Bandipora and AGS Wuzur winning the Arise School Excellence Award
🔹 AGS Wuzur securing a place among the global top 10 schools in the innovation category
🤝 Army-Airtel Foundation Partnership
The Army Commander also appreciated the contribution of the Bharti Airtel Foundation, describing its decade-long partnership with the Army as being marked by professionalism, passion and a commitment to inclusive education at the grassroots level.
Lt Gen Sharma expressed confidence that continued collaboration would help create greater opportunities for children and young people in Jammu and Kashmir.
The Army’s message, he said, remains centred on peace, opportunity, education and empowering the next generation as Jammu and Kashmir contributes to the larger vision of a Viksit Bharat.
