CM pays tribute to Martyrs on Vijay Diwas
By Our Staff Reporter
Dehradun, 16 Dec: Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami paid homage to the martyrs of the 1971 India-Pakistan war by laying a floral wreath at the Shaheed Smarak in Gandhi Park during the Vijay Diwas celebrations held here today.
Addressing the gathering on the occasion, the CM also expressed concern over the ongoing atrocities and violence against the Hindu community in Bangladesh, emphasising that such acts deeply hurt the values of humanity.
Dhami mentioned the pivotal role of Indian soldiers in safeguarding the nation’s integrity and dignity during the 1971 war. He described the 1971 war as a “golden chapter” in India’s history, inspiring pride and patriotism among all Indians. He lauded the armed forces for their exceptional skills, noting that, in just 13 days, they compelled Pakistan to surrender, showcasing India’s resolve to protect not only its sovereignty but also humanity and justice.
The CM also described the unprecedented surrender of about 1 lakh Pakistani soldiers to the Indian Army on 16 December 1971 as a historic event in global military history. He paid tribute to the 3,900 Indian soldiers martyred in the war, including 255 brave hearts from Uttarakhand. He reminded that, among them, 74 soldiers from the state were honoured with various bravery awards for their extraordinary courage and valour.
Reflecting on changes since 2014, Dhami credited Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership for enhancing the morale of the armed forces. He remarked that under PM Modi’s governance, the military now responds decisively to threats without requiring prior orders during conflicts. He criticised earlier political attempts to undermine the military’s valour. He stated that India’s strides toward self-reliance in defence production and its growing reputation as an exporter of defence materials to over 70 countries.
Dhami reiterated the state government’s commitment to the welfare of soldiers and their families. He cited initiatives like increasing financial grants for soldiers and their dependants, providing priority state government jobs to the families of martyrs. As a soldier’s son, himself, the CM also shared his personal pride in witnessing these positive changes in the defence sector.
Addressing the current situation in Bangladesh, the Chief Minister voiced concern over the safety of Hindus there and questioned the silence of certain groups who otherwise protest over smaller incidents. He stated that India has raised its concerns with Bangladesh’s interim government and stressed that India’s goodwill should not be mistaken for weakness.
On this occasion, CM Dhami announced free travel in Transport Corporation buses for the widows and mothers of the state’s martyred soldiers. He also honoured veterans and families of the 1971 war heroes during the ceremony.
Sainik Kalyan Minister Ganesh Joshi praised PM Modi’s leadership in transforming India into a leading global military power, noting the success of defence exports to over 70 countries. He announced the upcoming inauguration of a military shrine in Uttarakhand, dedicated to the memory of the martyrs. The event was attended by Cabinet Minister Prem Chand Aggarwal, MLA Khajan Das, senior BJP leaders, military veterans including Maj Gen (Retd) Sammy Sabharwal, Brigadier (Retd) Amrit Lal and Brigadier (Retd) KG Behl along with district officials and brave women from soldiers’ families.
