Why fewer youths from Punjab are joining the armed forces | The Hindu Spotlight

As fewer youths from Punjab join the armed forces, the residents of Nathowal, known locally as ‘faujian da pind’ (village of soldiers) in Ludhiana district, lay out the reasons. Agnipath’s uncertainty, drug fears, and the lure of foreign earnings, are pushing parents to send children away from home, creating a generation that’s dreaming beyond regimental traditions Updated - February 16, 2026 02:18 pm IST Published - February 16, 2026 11:05 am IST Terms & conditions  |  Institutional Subscriber Comments have to be in English, and in full sentences. They cannot be abusive or personal.