Army Chief Visits Poonch District to Assess Security and Honor Veteran

On February 7, 2026, Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi visited the forward areas in Poonch district, Jammu and Kashmir. His visit aimed to assess the strength and readiness of the soldiers stationed there and to connect with the troops on the ground. The visit is part of ongoing efforts to ensure the security of the region, which has strategic importance. During his time there, the Army Chief observed the operational preparedness of the troops and interacted with them to understand their needs and concerns. The visit was marked by positive remarks about the morale and readiness of the soldiers. General Dwivedi commended the troops for their high spirits and effective preparation to meet any challenge. Such visits are important for boosting the confidence of the troops and reaffirming the army’s commitment to their safety. A significant part of the visit involved meeting veteran Subedar (Honorary Captain) Parvez Ahmed. He is a retired soldier from the 18 Jammu and Kashmir Rifles, and he met General Dwivedi in Kamsar village. The two had a close working relationship when Dwivedi commanded the battalion between 2002 and 2005. Parvez Ahmed joined the Indian Army in March 1991 and served for 28 years before retiring in March 2019. His service included both operational duties and instructional roles, and he was recognized with awards for his dedication. After retiring, Parvez Ahmed continued to be an active member of his community. He supported the troops during Operation Sindoor, an operation carried out in the region. His ongoing efforts did not go unnoticed, and the Army recognized his contributions. During the visit, General Dwivedi felicitated Parvez Ahmed with the Veteran Achiever Award, honoring his continued service and support beyond his retirement. This recognition emphasizes the strong bond between the army's current personnel, veterans, and local civilians, especially in the border districts of Jammu and Kashmir. Such relationships are vital for maintaining peace and stability in the region. As of February 2026, there is no official information about any additional activities or decisions taken during General Dwivedi’s visit. The focus remains on maintaining operational readiness and acknowledging the role of veterans and local communities in supporting national security. The visit by the Army Chief and the recognition given to a veteran highlight the importance the Indian Army places on community engagement and the well-being of its personnel, both active and retired. It also underscores ongoing efforts to preserve strong bonds between the military, veterans, and the local population, which is crucial for the security dynamics of Jammu and Kashmir.