Kargil bids farewell to Brig Prateek Parashar, welcomes new Cdr
Kargil, Jun 11: In a heartfelt and dignified ceremony today, the Ladakh Autonomous Hill Development Council (LAHDC) Kargil accorded a warm farewell to Brigadier Prateek Parashar, the outgoing Commander of the 121 Infantry Brigade, under the chairmanship of Hon’ble CEC Dr. Mohd Jaffer Akhoon. The event, held at the Council Secretariat, also marked the ceremonial welcome of his successor, Colonel Ashish Joshi.
The event was attended by top civil and military officials including Deputy Commissioner and CEO LAHDC Kargil, Shrikant Suse, several Executive Councilors, and Councilors representing constituencies such as Shargole, TSG, Saliskote, Lankerchey, and Chuliskambo. Officers from key development departments including Horticulture and R&B were also present, highlighting the close civil-military coordination under Brigadier Parashar’s tenure.
At the heart of the ceremony was a deep expression of gratitude for Brigadier Parashar’s dedicated service in fostering civil-military synergy, particularly in areas of health and education under Operation Sadbhavana. CEC Dr. Akhoon praised his instrumental role in resolving land issues and ensuring the establishment of a Primary Health Centre in Budgam village, Chuliskambo Constituency.
“The Brigadier has not only safeguarded our borders but also our people’s well-being. His work reflects the spirit of partnership between the Army and civilians,” said Dr. Akhoon, while also acknowledging the Army’s efforts in enabling winter connectivity through AN-32 courier services and their critical response during Operation Sindoor.
Deputy Commissioner Shrikant Suse echoed these sentiments, noting the Brigadier’s leadership in advancing developmental works, including promoting border tourism and ensuring the success of VVIP visits. “A positive impression of the Kargil Brigade has spread among the people, thanks to his transparent and people-centric approach,” he remarked.
In his address, Brigadier Parashar humbly credited the cooperation of the LAHDC and district administration for the successful execution of joint development projects. Emphasizing the patriotic nature of Kargil’s people, he remarked, “For the Army, the welfare of the nation and its people is a duty, not a choice.”
Incoming Commander Colonel Ashish Joshi, while addressing the gathering, expressed appreciation for the significance of his new post and reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to continued collaboration with local stakeholders.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of traditional khataks and souvenirs to Brigadier Parashar as tokens of respect and affection. In a reciprocal gesture, the Brigadier presented a portrait to CEC Dr. Akhoon, symbolizing a strong and lasting civil-military partnership in the frontier district.
