Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s recent visit to Arunachal Pradesh was not just an official engagement; it was a poignant tribute to the valor and unwavering commitment of the Armed Forces who stand guard on the challenging frontiers of the nation. On October 24, 2023, he embarked on a journey to Arunachal Pradesh, where he carried out a first-hand assessment of the operational preparedness of the troops stationed there.
Celebrating Dussehra on the Frontlines
During his visit, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh celebrated Dussehra with the troops deployed in the frontline locations along the Line of Actual Control. This symbolic gesture exemplified the nation’s appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices made by these brave men and women, who work tirelessly under tough conditions to ensure the safety of the nation and its people.
Shastra Puja and the Essence of Dussehra
At Tawang, Shri Rajnath Singh performed Shastra Puja, a ritual that embodies the significance of Dussehra, which signifies the victory of good over evil. In his address to the troops, he hailed the Armed Forces’ unwavering commitment as a living testament to the righteous ethos of the festival of Vijayadashmi.
A Growing Global Stature
The Raksha Mantri underscored the significant role of the Armed Forces in elevating India’s stature on the global stage. He shared his experience of visiting the Montone memorial in Italy, dedicated to Naik Yaswant Ghadge and other Indian soldiers who fought in World War II to liberate Montone. The international recognition of their bravery stands as a testament to the valor of Indian soldiers.
Strengthening India’s Security Apparatus
In light of the current global scenario, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the necessity of fortifying the country’s security apparatus. The government is dedicated to enhancing India’s military prowess through indigenous production of defense equipment. Under the visionary leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, significant strides have been taken towards ‘Aatmanirbharta’ in defense. The Raksha Mantri highlighted the shift from reliance on imports to the production of major weapons and platforms within India, encouraging foreign companies to share their technology and produce equipment domestically.
Honoring Sacrifice at the Tawang War Memorial
Shri Rajnath Singh visited the Tawang War Memorial, where he paid his respects to the bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1962 war. He was joined by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande and other senior officers of the Indian Army.
Acknowledging Operational Readiness at Tezpur
The visit also extended to the 4 Corps Headquarters at Tezpur in Assam, where the Raksha Mantri reviewed the operational readiness of the formation. He commended the remarkable work of the Corps in enhancing the operational efficiency of troops deployed on the frontline, especially considering the challenging conditions they operate under.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh’s visit was not just an official duty; it was a heartfelt tribute to the valor and dedication of the Armed Forces. It showcased the nation’s unwavering support for the guardians of our borders, who ensure that India remains safe and secure.
