The examination for the post of Junior Commissioned Officers and other associated ranks was held in Srinagar and Pattan on Sunday
A day after Hizbul Mujahideen terrorist Sabzar Bhat was killed, hundreds of Kashmiri youth on Sunday appeared for the Common Entrance Test (CET), the Indian Army's recruitment examination, amid separatists' shutdown call.
The examination for the post of Junior Commissioned Officers and other associated ranks was held in Srinagar and Pattan on Sunday. Around 1,292 candidate appeared for the test at both the locations despite the unavailability of public transport.
"Nearly 799 candidates of the total 815 appeared for the written test in Pattan, and 492 of 500 candidates appeared for the test at the J&K Light Infantry Regimental Centre at Srinagar, defying the tw- day bandh call by various factions of the inimical bodies," said Colonel Rajesh Kalia, Defence Spokesman in Srinagar.
More than 19,000 aspirants applied for different posts in the army when the recruitment drive started in April . Later, the candidates were required to appear for various aptitude tests. Around 1,307 candidates were shortlisted for the written test on Sunday.
"The written examination is held after due registration, physical and medical tests. Successful candidates who qualify are allowed to appear for the written examination", said Colonel Kalia.
Enthusiasm among the youth to join the Armed forces was palpable as most of the candidates had to trek the distance or hitch a ride to reach the venue.
"There is lot of interest among the boys (of Kashmir to join the forces). They need jobs. Despite the bandh, they have showed enthusiasm and participated in the written exams. If we continue with such endeavours, we can guide them on the right path," said Major General AK Singh, General Officer Commanding, Kilo Force of the Indian Army.
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