Doda (Jammu and Kashmir), May 30 : School students of Doda District in Jammu and Kashmir have reportedly mastered a series of defensive tactics by the Indian Army.

The training programme, which was organised by the No. 4 Battalion of the Rashtriya Rifles for 30 girl students of various schools in the Bhadarwah Sub-Division involved basic weapon handling and shooting skills.

The range of arms that were used included AK-47, .303, pistol and even light machine guns.

During the training course, the girl students in particular radiated immense confidence and fearlessness.

"I am hopeful that through this little bit of practical training, these students will develop a sense of belonging to the Army and would cooperate with us," said Colonel Paramjeet Singh, Commanding Officer, No. 4 Battalion, Rashtriya Rifles.

The girl students of Government High Schools Ghoshti, Sartingal and Malothi displayed courage and fearlessness while handling the weapons.

"We learnt to handle guns here. It is said that women cannot do anything but we have proved our worth by operating guns. We are confident that we will be able to protect ourselves from any eventual situation with whatever weapons we have with us," said Durga Padha, a student.

"We were afraid of firing earlier but now we can face it bravely," added Farha Naz, another student of Government High School, Ghoshti.

On seeing the girls’s courage and confidence in the handling arms and ammunitions, Godhti High School Headmaster Fazal Haq Wani expressed a desire to see the girls serving in the armed forces. (ANI)