Bhopal (Madhya Pradesh): Just 25 kilometers from Bhopal lies Narela, a small village with a big heart for the nation.
Home to around 100 families, almost every house in this village has at least one member serving or retired from the Indian Army.
During the recent Operation Sindoor, when the country stood united in support of the Indian Armed Forces, a team from The Free Press Journal visited Narela.
Check out more details in the video below :
What they saw was a village where patriotism runs deep, and young boys—some just 15 to 20 years old—are already training with one dream: to wear the uniform and serve the country.
This inspiring journey began with Om Karan Verma, a brave soldier from the village who sacrificed his life fighting terrorists. His younger brother, Shyam Karan Verma, followed his path and joined the army.
After retiring with 18 years of service—having fought in the Kargil War and responded to the Parliament attack—Shyam Karan now trains the village boys for the army.
'Developing training centre in Narela'
Describing the dedication villagers hold in their hearts for the nation, Shyam Karan Verma - who the trains youth for Indian Army, said, "I'm proud that today our village is contributing to the country, with every home having an army personnel - not just men, but women too."
He further informed that Narela is home to a female Colonel officer currently posted in Jammu and Kashmir."
Whereas, the Panchayat Head Rajesh Verma proudly stated, "There's no village like Narela in the district where every home has an army personnel."
Verma further added that he's working towards establishing a training center for youths aspiring to join the army.
Even without proper training equipment, the youth of Narela don’t give up. They train on farms and village roads, pushing themselves every day with pride and passion. Many of them were sent to the border during Operation Sindoor, and their families stand tall with pride.
The Madhya Pradesh government also recognizes Narela’s special contribution to the armed forces.
This village, built on courage and sacrifice, continues to shape the protectors of tomorrow.
