Jammu, March 28 : Appreciating the youth and local populace for a scintillating display of talent in the border area, GOC White Knight Corps, Lt Gen Manjinder Singh assured that Indian Army is always standing strongly behind the aspirations of Awaam for peace and prosperity of the region. Speaking at Mendhar Festival in Poonch district on Monday, the General complimented the civil administration and local populace for ensuring the achievement of remarkable development in last few years. He motivated the youth to work hard for securing their future and also cautioned them to be wary of pitfalls of drug abuse and propaganda spread by the anti national elements. “We all are committed and will continue to work together for maintaining a conductive environment of peace and prosperity in the region,” said Lt Gen Singh. Indian Army, Bhimber Gali Brigade under the aegis of Ace of Spades Division, organised a mega cultural festival in Mendhar town from March 27 to 28. Indian Army continues to encourage youth and facilitating the local populace to celebrate the cultural vibrancy in the region, said Jammu based Defence PRO Lt Col Devender Anand. He said that Ace of Spades Division came out with que initiative to provide a platform for the energetic youth from schools and colleges to display their talent, promote the avenues of entrepreneurship and spread awareness about various employment opport ties. The Corps Commander was accompanied by Maj Gen Rajeev Puri, GOC, Ace of Spades Division, dignatories from civil administration, Rohit Baksotra, SSP Poonch and Principals of all three degree Colleges in the region. VBH RKM