Bokaro: It was a moment of pride for the 1,300-odd residents of Ravidas Tola in Birne panchayat in Giridih district late on Tuesday when a 19-year-old from the village returned home in uniform as an Agniveer in the Army.Uday Das returned home in his uniform on Tuesday after completing six months of training in Nashik in Maharashtra. He was given a hero’s welcome upon his return as hundreds from the village, including family members and well-wishers, gathered to welcome him with garlands, drums and chants of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai”.“Receiving such a grand welcome from my village is an emotional moment that I will never forget. I dedicate this achievement to my parents, teachers, villagers and everyone who supported me during my journey,” said Uday, who is the youngest of three siblings. His elder brother and sister stay in the village, while he is a mason by profession.A procession accompanied Uday from the Gawan block bus stand to his native village, nearly seven kilometres away. Along the route, people showered flowers, waved the national flag and cheered the young Agniveer as he made his way home.The celebrations continued in Birne village, where residents described the occasion as a proud chapter in the panchayat’s history. Uday’s return inspired many local youths, several of whom expressed a desire to follow in his footsteps and serve the nation.“Uday has brought glory not only to our family but to the entire village. His success is the result of hard work, discipline and dedication,” said his mother, Nirmala Devi.For Birne’s residents, Uday’s uniform symbolised more than a career achievement; it represented the dreams, sacrifices and patriotic spirit of an entire village. Chandan Kumar, mukhiya of Birne panchayat, said, “Uday becoming the first Agniveer from our village is a matter of immense pride for the entire panchayat.”Rajesh Das, a resident of the village, said, “Seeing him return in Army uniform filled every household with pride. The entire village came together to welcome him because his success belongs to all of us.”
Uday Das being welcomed by locals in his native village in Giridih district on Tuesday
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