Srinagar, July 11 (IANS): A total of 323 cadets belonging to Jammu and Kashmir joined the Indian Army at an impressive passing out parade here on Saturday.

"The majestic Bana Singh Parade Ground at the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry Regimental Centre today (Saturday) showcased its latest batch of 323 passing out recruits from Jammu and Kashmir," said Lt. Colonel N.N. Joshi, spokesman of the army's Srinagar-based 15th corps.

"Marching in precise unison with a singular aim of devoting their life to the service of the nation, singing their regimental song 'Balidanam Veer Lakshnam', the young soldiers inspired one and all as their voice echoed in the Valley."

The passing out parade was reviewed by Lt. General R.N. Nair, director general recruiting, and attended by over 2000 parents and relatives of the young soldiers along with a number of civil and military dignitaries.

"Recruit Rahul Sharma of Jammu was the commander of this passing out parade. He was adjusted as the overall best recruit in this batch encompassing all facets of training," Lt. Colonel Joshi said.

After shying away from joining the army for many years due to the separatist violence in the state, youth from here are now competing fiercely with each other to join the army and the central paramilitary forces in large numbers.