Confluence of Pride, Patriotism

In a tiny room in Karnataka's Inchal village, the banter wafts in the afternoon breeze. "Madras Regiment," says one veteran, his voice steady, shoulders proud.

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"Armoured corps," another replies, with the quiet confidence of someone who believes tanks trump infantry. It's less a disagreement and more a ritual — one that plays out among this group of men, bound not just by friendship, but service.

Then, a quieter voice chimes in: "This village has people in every arm — Army, Navy, Air Force, Border Security Force, Central Reserve Police Force — you name it." Inchal, home to just over 7,000 people, has more than 400 who served or are still serving in the armed forces and paramilitary. Here, uniformed service isn't just a career, it's inheritance.

As tensions flared between India and Pakistan earlier this month, Inchal followed every development with rapt attention, and a deep sense of personal connection. With over 100 villagers currently serving across the armed forces and paramilitary units, conflict echoed in almost every household.