CM Sukhu Urges Centre to Raise Dedicated Himachal Scouts Battalion.
Proposed force to focus on local recruitment from border areas, strengthen defence preparedness along the Line of Actual Control.
Shimla:
Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has urged the Union Government to raise a dedicated Himachal Scouts Battalion on the lines of the Ladakh Scouts, Sikkim Scouts and Arunachal Pradesh Scouts to strengthen India’s defence preparedness along the Sino-Indian border.
The proposed battalion would provide a special recruitment opportunity for youth from Himachal Pradesh, particularly those belonging to border districts such as Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti. The local youth are familiar with the challenging mountainous terrain, extreme cold and harsh climatic conditions prevailing in high-altitude regions, making them well suited for specialised military operations in these areas.
The Chief Minister said that establishing a dedicated Himachal Scouts Battalion would strengthen the country’s defence capabilities along the Line of Actual Control (LAC). He emphasised that personnel familiar with the region’s geographical conditions and weather patterns could play an important role in enhancing operational effectiveness in difficult mountainous terrain.
The proposed battalion would also provide greater opportunities for local youth to serve in the Armed Forces while recognising Himachal Pradesh’s longstanding contribution to the country’s military strength and national security.
Himachal Pradesh’s Rich Military Tradition
Highlighting the state’s contribution to the Armed Forces, Sukhu said Himachal Pradesh was known not only as Dev Bhoomi but also as Veer Bhoomi because of its rich military heritage and the courage displayed by its soldiers.
He said more than one lakh youth from the state were currently serving in the Armed Forces, while a similar number of ex-servicemen had contributed to the nation’s defence and security over the years.
The Chief Minister said the people of Himachal Pradesh had a deep-rooted tradition of patriotism, bravery and sacrifice. Military service continued to be a source of pride for the state, with generations of soldiers making significant contributions to safeguarding the country’s borders.
Four Param Vir Chakra Awardees from Himachal
Recalling the state’s distinguished military legacy, Sukhu highlighted the contribution of Major Som Nath Sharma, who hailed from Himachal Pradesh and became the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra, India’s highest military gallantry award.
He said the courage, dedication and spirit of sacrifice demonstrated by Himachal Pradesh’s soldiers were a matter of immense pride for the state and the nation.
“Our soldiers have never hesitated to make the supreme sacrifice for the nation. Himachal Pradesh has produced four Param Vir Chakra awardees, which stands as a testament to the state’s rich legacy of courage, patriotism and sacrifice,” the Chief Minister said.
He emphasised that the proposed Himachal Scouts Battalion would recognise this proud military tradition while providing local youth with an opportunity to contribute directly to the country’s defence, particularly in strategically important high-altitude border areas.
The demand assumes particular significance for Kinnaur and Lahaul-Spiti, where residents are accustomed to living in extreme climatic conditions and navigating difficult mountain terrain. A dedicated battalion could help create specialised military opportunities for local youth while strengthening India’s preparedness along its northern borders.
The proposal seeks to establish a Himachal-specific force modelled on existing scouts units in other Himalayan and northeastern regions. Its implementation, however, would depend on the Union Government’s consideration and approval.
