Army biography: The early days of ‘rifleman’ Aurangzeb of Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regiment

The day Ilham had always dreaded had arrived – it was time for Aurangzeb to leave. He bid adieu to his family and Ilham, and with a heavy heart, moved towards the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regimental Centre at Srinagar. This had been Aurangzeb’s dream since he was a little boy, and throughout his journey, he couldn’t believe that it was unfolding into reality. The foundation of the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regiment is intertwined with India’s first war after Independence.

In 1947-48, when the Kaballis, with the support of Pakistan, attacked India, a regiment under the name Jammu and Kashmir Militia came into existence to defend the Indian frontiers. A volunteer force by design, the J&K Militia successfully pushed back the intruders and established peace. They fought bravely during the 1962, 1965, 1971 and 1999 Kargil war and won accolades. With several military honours and theatre honours to its name, it became one of the most decorated regiments of the Indian Army. Owing to the tales of bravery attached to its name, the force was called the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regiment since April 1976.

Standing before the Centre, Aurangzeb felt a sense of honour and respect. This was it....

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