The Story of Unyielding Courage and Unwavering Dedication

What made you choose the Army, and how did you feel joining the same?

While studying in class 4th, I participated in a drama based on the Army section procedure. Whereby a boy wanted to join the Army. But since he was the only child of his widow's mother, he was denied selection. Because, as per the rule of the Army, such candidates are not recruited. And when the mother learns the same, she dies in grief, and the very next day, the boy comes again to get selected. This play touched me very much. Therefore ever since then, I decided to join the Army.

Initially, I missed my home as I was the youngest one, hence pampered the most. However, we had to follow tough rules and lifestyles in the Army. During my early days, despite having an officer rank, I was made to live among soldiers so that we could get familiar with and form strong bonds.

Tell us the reason behind the Kashmiri Pandit exodus.

The primary reasons behind the violence against the Pandits were ideological, political, and religious. Some groups were not happy with the election results, claiming it to be unfair. The separatist movement in the valley sought to create an independent Muslim state, and the Pandits, being a Hindu minority, were seen as obstacles to this goal. The militants also perceived the Pandits as representatives of the Indian state, which they were fighting against.

Can you tell us about any of your Kashmiri militants' face-off incidents?

During an operation in 1994 in Kashmir, we got information regarding 6 militants roaming around Kashmir. On further inquiry, we discovered that 3 of them were Afghans, while the rest were Kashmiri. All of them were hiding inside a cow shed. 

We stormed inside with two civilians to avoid any suspicion and cover up ourselves. However, the moment we got inside, militants started firing, and unfortunately, the civilians died on the spot. In response, we also used weapons. But they had grenades which injured me as well as other soldiers. Some of my unit members died during a face-off. My leg was also injured by a grenade; however, I was lucky enough to survive.  

How did you feel when any civilian died during such operations?

When any innocent civilian dies during such operations, we feel extremely sorry for them and their families. And after such tragic incidents, the government pays compensation to the family in the form of money in addition to a job, if eligible. 

I request the youth not get brainwashed or indulge in any criminal activities. Being involved in such acts won't only make you suffer but your whole family and society. 

Have you ever lost your dear ones in Army?

During the same year that is 1994, I lost one of my dearest comrades, Lt Singh. While chasing a militant and crossing a river bridge, one of the soldiers fell off. Singh also jumped to save him from drowning. However, he succeeded in saving the soldiers' life but could not survive himself as the river stream was extremely high. I brought his dead body to Delhi and handed it over to his family; his memories are still alive in my heart and forever will be.

"At the same time, I feel so proud and happy to serve my nation that even if I died today and were reborn, I would like to be an Army officer in my next life too"

Conclusion

The words of Lt. Vashisht provided insights into the difficult decisions they must make, the tragedies they face, and the pride they take in serving their country. His experiences provide a window into the world of the brave souls who put their lives on the line daily to keep our country safe. By knowing his journey, we get a glimpse into the immense sacrifices, the indomitable courage, and the unrelenting spirit of the men and women who serve in the armed forces. Let this interview be a reminder of the immense debt of gratitude we owe to these heroes who selflessly serve our nation with all their might.