MUSINGS OF A SOLDIER: TIT-BITS

People often ask me about my life out of uniform. Honestly, I have had no problems. Not so far. Instead, I find it quite refreshing. No routine, no parades, no briefing, no impending operations. Having donned the uniform since the age of thirteen until I hung up my boots last year, could I ever visualize life out of uniform? Not really. But, as I said, the transition has been quite smooth–no hang-overs, no regrets. People have been very positive in their interactions. Government departments have been responsive whenever I have approached for assistance.The genuine respect for the uniform is quite evident and it makes my heart swell with pride. Arunachal, to that extent, is the most nationalistic state in the country, I daresay. It has been kind of a revelation for me to experience the freedom of being a common man in an environment of positivity!

- Major General Jarken Gamlin (Retd), AVSM, SM, VSM

Having interacted with people from all hues in the past few months, I also realize I have seen very little of Arunachal. My visits to Arunachal all these years have always been short and hectic. So, never had an opportunity to explore its diverse culture and traditions. Yes, I do have plans in place to travel around Arunachal to visit the remote areas and enjoy its pristine beauty. I want to make up for the lost years and be a part of our simple rustic societal life and the clean environment. I would love to experience the luxury of being with nature. In essence, this is where I began my life’s journey and this is where I intend to spend the twilight years of my life, in the peaceful and tranquil surroundings of ‘the land of the rising sun’.