On the occasion of Armed Forces Veterans Day, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha paid a heartfelt tribute to the ex-servicemen, valiant Jawans, Veer Naris, and the families of the brave-hearts of the Armed Forces. The commemoration, held at Akhnoor and presided over by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh, underscored the nation’s deep gratitude for its military veterans.
“I bow my head in gratitude to all the veterans, valiant Jawans, Veer Naris, and the families of our Armed Forces’ brave-hearts. We remain forever indebted to our veterans who have not only protected our borders but continue to contribute towards the nation’s growth and development,” said the Lieutenant Governor during his address.
Expressing his appreciation for the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor thanked Hon’ble Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi and Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh for designating this day to honor the distinguished service of ex-servicemen. He further emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to safeguarding the welfare of Armed Forces personnel and their families.
“The soldiers safeguarding our borders are the foundation of our nation’s security and prosperity. It is a collective responsibility of society to take tangible steps for the welfare of our soldiers and veterans,” the Lieutenant Governor remarked. He also noted that the land of Akhnoor holds a special place in the hearts of all citizens, as it is a symbol of the courage and sacrifice of the Armed Forces.
As part of the event, the Lieutenant Governor unveiled two significant landmarks: the 108-foot Monumental National Flag and the Akhnoor Heritage Museum, both dedicated to the nation by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. These monuments, he said, will serve as constant reminders to future generations of the selfless devotion and sacrifices made by the soldiers and their families for the nation.
“A martyr’s home is a sacred temple, and this sentiment of reverence must resonate in the hearts of all citizens,” he added. “It is our duty, as both an administration and a society, to honour the sacrifices of these brave men and women by ensuring they live lives of comfort and dignity.”
The Lieutenant Governor also highlighted various government welfare programs aimed at supporting the education and career prospects of the children of veterans. These initiatives, he noted, are vital in ensuring that the families of those who served the nation continue to thrive.
On this solemn occasion, the Lieutenant Governor paid homage to Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. A two-minute silence was observed in honor of the martyrs of the Armed Forces. Additionally, mobility aids, such as motorised wheelchairs and retrofitted scooties, were distributed to veterans and Veer Naris to improve their quality of life.
The commemoration was a poignant reminder of the nation’s debt to its soldiers, whose sacrifices ensure the country’s safety, security, and continued progress.