Tales of villages with legacies of military service

Scores of villages across India boast of a rich connection with the forces, having had people from across generations serve in them.

Inchal, Karnataka — Confluence of pride, patriotism

Students of the Vijeta Career Academy in Apshinge after a morning training session. (HT Photo)

In a tiny room in Karnataka’s Inchal village, the banter wafts in the afternoon breeze. “Madras Regiment,” says one veteran, his voice steady, shoulders proud. “Armoured corps,” another replies, with the quiet confidence of someone who believes tanks trump infantry. It’s less a disagreement and more a ritual — one that plays out among this group of men, bound not just by friendship, but service.

Then, a quieter voice chimes in: “This village