Yogesh
Jammu, Oct 14: Describing India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1965 war and recent ‘Operation Sindoor’ as shining examples of the valour, courage, and supreme sacrifice of Indian soldiers, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Monday said that Bharat has sent out a message to the world that it will avenge every drop of its citizens’ blood.
Addressing a mega rally of ex-servicemen, here, LG Sinha said,” India has shown to the world that it is among the most powerful countries after destroying enemy defence fortifications and airfields within minutes of launching Operation Sindoor.”
“No one can dare raise their eyes towards our country,” he added.
He paid rich tributes to the martyrs and felicitated ex-servicemen as part of the Diamond Jubilee celebrations of India’s victory over Pakistan in the 1965 war.
Recalling the heroism of the 1965 war heroes, LG Sinha paid homage to all martyrs who laid down their lives defending the sovereignty and integrity of the nation. “The abode of soldiers, who form the first line of defence against the terror-exporting country Pakistan, is a sacred land,” he said.
Reaffirming his deep respect for the veteran community, the Lieutenant Governor said, “Unwavering devotion to ex-servicemen is the fundamental foundation of my policies. Personally, for me, the land of veterans is no less than a pilgrimage site. Our veterans have made immense contributions to economic growth, social transformation, and the resurgence of a glorious India.”
The Lieutenant Governor lauded the valour of the 26 Infantry Division during Operation Sindoor and praised the army’s humanitarian role in saving lives during recent natural calamities in Jammu and Kashmir.
Calling upon ex-servicemen to continue their contribution to nation-building, LG Sinha urged them to apply their leadership, discipline, and experience in community service and civic action programmes. “Our ex-servicemen are role models for the youth. They must guide the young generation on the righteous path and teach them the values of patriotism, discipline, and selfless service,” he added.
Emphasising the nation’s collective responsibility towards its defenders, the Lieutenant Governor said all sections of society must honour the sacrifices and dedication of the security forces. “It is our collective duty to ensure that our veterans and the families of our martyrs live a dignified life,” he said.
The event was attended by Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command; Lt Gen Rajan Sharawat, GOC 9 Corps; Maj Gen Mukesh Bhanwala, GOC 26 Infantry Division; Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Lt Gen R.K. Sharma (Retd.), President, J&K Ex-Services League; Brig Gurmeet Singh Shan (Retd.), Director, Sainik Welfare Department J&K; senior officials from the armed forces, police, and civil administration; war veterans; ex-servicemen; and veer naris.
