Families of Indian Defence forces from North Andhra show unwavering support amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan
Amid rising tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack, many families with loved ones serving in the Defence forces are experiencing anxiety over the increasingly war-like situation. Despite their concern, they expressed strong support for their family members and stand firmly with the armed forces during this critical time.
The North Andhra districts, including Srikakulam, Vizianagaram and Visakhapatnam, have long contributed significantly to the Indian Navy, Army, and Air Force. In the light of current developments, the leave of several personnel has been cancelled, while others have been urgently recalled to duty.
'My husband was supposed to come on leave on May 11 to attend our son's cradle ceremony scheduled for next week. However, we were informed that his one-month leave has been cancelled,' said Ms. Rekha from Pendurthi. Her husband, who serves in the Indian Air Force, is currently stationed in a place in Karnataka and is expected to be deployed to Jammu in the coming days due to the situation.
'Yes, there is some concern after watching the attacks last night, but we are coping up. When he called me yesterday, I told him to stay fully focused on his duty and not let anything distract him. He seemed to be determined and said it was a great opportunity to serve the country,' she said, adding that throughout the night she has been watching the TV and the social media for the updates.
Naresh Kumar's nephew is currently serving with the Indian Air Force in Jammu. Since the launch of Operation Sindoor, the family has not heard from him.
'Whenever he is deployed on operations, he goes on silent for a few days,' Mr. Naresh explains. 'We are accustomed to it by now. He has served in several states including Punjab, West Bengal, the Andaman Islands, and now Jammu. He has also worked in Drass. We are confident that he will fulfill his duties with dedication for the country and return safely.'
Twenty-six-year-old N. Kamala's husband, N. Ravi, is serving in the Indian Army and is currently stationed in Meghalaya. The couple hails from Palasa mandal in Srikakulam district. While Ravi was on leave, he received an urgent call from Army officials to report back to duty immediately.
'Although we are not near the Pakistan border, the areas along the borders with Bangladesh and China have also been put on high alert, and I've been asked to return,' Ravi said. He added that his previous posting was in Srinagar.
'Every time he leaves for duty, there's always a sense of worry,' Kamala shared. 'But this time, it feels more intense. My mother-in-law has been especially anxious since Thursday night after watching the news. I have been been trying to reassure her that this is not a Pakistan-border area. Still, national duty comes first for him, and we are proud of him' she adds.
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