Uri, Sep 15 : In a gesture of goodwill amid a gruelling recruitment drive, residents of this border town in north Kashmir have stepped forward to shelter and feed unemployed youth who have arrived here to appear for the Agniveer recruitment process.
The initiative was led by Haji Mohammad Shafi, president of the Beopar Mandal Uri, who along with members of the Traders Association arranged free food, refreshments and accommodation for the aspirants, many of whom have travelled from distant parts of Jammu and Kashmir.
Several religious and commercial establishments pitched in, including Jamia Masjid Noor Uri, Jamia Masjid Jumma Uri, Masjid Habib, Jamia Masjid Sajid Uri, Hotel Zulfiqar & Restaurant Uri, and Shahi Darbar Hotel Uri.
“These boys are our future. They have come from far-off places with hope in their hearts. It is our duty to make sure no one sleeps hungry or without a roof,” Shafi told The Web Story/The Varmul Post. “Uri knows what hardship means. We have lived through shelling and uncertainty. If we can ease someone’s burden, even for a night, it is worth it.”
Families of the candidates expressed gratitude to the people of Uri for making their children feel welcome and for providing them with essential facilities during their stay. Many said the kindness shown by the local community would be remembered for years.
“I came here worried about where I would stay and what I would eat. But the people of Uri treated me like their own son,” said Aijaz Ahmad, an aspirant from Kupwara. “I will never forget this.”
Another candidate, Rakesh Kumar from Rajouri, said, “We heard Uri is a sensitive border area, but what we found here was pure warmth. It gave us confidence before our physical tests.”
Aspirants and their families singled out Shafi for praise, saying his initiative ensured that no candidate went without food or a place to rest.
“Shafi sahab and the traders have done what governments sometimes take months to arrange. They opened their hearts and their doors,” said Mohammad Yousuf, whose son is appearing for the recruitment.
Notably, the Indian Army Agniveer recruitment rally for CEE-qualified candidates is currently underway at the Uri Military Station from September 14 to September 20, 2026.
