Northern Command Committed to Maintaining Peace and Nation-Building: Lt Gen Pratik Sharma
SOUTH KASHMIR: Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command, reaffirmed on Friday that the Indian Army will continue its strong commitment to nation-building while ensuring peace and tranquillity across Jammu and Kashmir.
Addressing a gathering at the Army Goodwill School (AGS) in South Kashmir, Lt Gen Sharma highlighted the military’s broader vision for the region’s development alongside its core operational responsibilities.
— Lt Gen Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C, Northern Command
Commending the students for their outstanding achievements, the Army Commander attributed their success to the dedicated guidance of parents and quality education delivered by teachers. He cited notable academic accolades, pointing out that AGS Wuzur secured third position and AGS Uri placed sixth nationally in the Young Scientist India 2025 competition. Furthermore, AGS Wuzur recently featured among the top 10 schools nationwide in the Innovation category.
Reflecting on his personal student journey and the hurdles he encountered, Lt Gen Sharma urged the youth to aim high and remain steadfast. “Irrespective of the place, irrespective of the environment, continue to work hard. A time will come when you will prove yourself,” he encouraged.
Decade of Educational Transformation
The event also celebrated a milestone: ten years of educational partnership between Army Goodwill Schools and the Bharti Airtel Foundation. What began as a collaborative effort across 14 schools has now expanded to encompass all 43 Army Goodwill Schools situated across Jammu, Kashmir, and Ladakh.
According to official statements, the initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 by enhancing institutional leadership, classroom practices, academic management, teacher capabilities, and technology-driven learning. Creativity and scientific inquiry have flourished under the initiative, with AGS Innovation Clubs completing over 160 student-led projects and participating in prestigious platforms such as ISRO YUVIKA, INSPIRE-MANAK, and Young Scientist India.
Key Announcements & Support Extended
- Bharti Airtel Foundation Support: Co-Chairman Rakesh Bharti Mittal announced continued support for the next decade, pledging resources for library expansion, sports coaching, smart classrooms, higher-education scholarships, and cash incentives for top-performing Class 10 and 12 students.
- Focus on Girl Child Education: Shinei Sharma, Regional President of the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA), Northern Command, called on parents and educators to prepare students for future challenges, emphasizing that educating the girl child is essential for building an inclusive society.