Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid homage to India’s fallen soldiers at the Sherathang War Memorial in Sikkim on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, honouring the supreme sacrifices made by brave military personnel in the service of the nation.
During his visit to the forward sector, the Defence Minister laid emphasis on the enduring legacy of India’s bravehearts, describing war memorials as powerful symbols of courage, sacrifice and national pride. He observed that such monuments serve not only to commemorate fallen soldiers but also to inspire future generations to uphold the values for which they laid down their lives.
Reflecting on the significance of war memorials, Rajnath Singh invoked the saying, “Monuments are for the living, not the dead,” highlighting their role in keeping alive the memory of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice while defending the country’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.
The Defence Minister also interacted with Indian Army personnel deployed in the strategically important and challenging forward areas of Sikkim. He acknowledged their unwavering dedication, operational commitment and high morale despite the extreme weather conditions and difficult mountainous terrain.
Drawing a comparison between the soldiers guarding India’s borders and the traditional lamps associated with Diwali, Rajnath Singh described the jawans as ‘diyas’ who silently fight darkness and spread the light of security to households across the country.
He praised the courage and patriotism of troops who remain vigilant along the nation’s frontiers while millions of citizens celebrate the festival with their families. Their constant presence in remote and demanding locations, he noted, enables the country to observe its festivals in an atmosphere of peace and security.
Rajnath Singh expressed immense pride in celebrating Diwali among the personnel protecting India’s borders. He appreciated the sacrifices made not only by the soldiers but also by their families, who often spend important festivals away from their loved ones.
The Defence Minister extended his warm Diwali greetings to all military personnel serving along India’s borders and their families, wishing them happiness, prosperity and continued strength.
His visit to Sherathang highlighted the government’s recognition of the dedication and sacrifices of the Armed Forces, particularly those deployed in high-altitude border regions where maintaining constant vigilance demands exceptional physical endurance, discipline and determination.
The occasion served as a tribute to India’s fallen heroes and a celebration of the courage, resilience and unwavering commitment of the soldiers who continue to safeguard the nation.
