Rajnath Singh Hails Army Jawans, Calls Siachen the “Capital of Bravery”
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, during a visit to Siachen, the world’s highest battlefield, on Monday praised the valor, heroism, courage, dedication, and sacrifices of Indian Army jawans, stating that each of them is like a “devata” (deity) for the countrymen. He emphasized that while Delhi is the political capital, Mumbai the financial capital, and Bengaluru the technology capital of India, Siachen represents the capital of bravery, grit, heroism, and determination.
Speaking to the officers and jawans at Siachen, located at an elevation of 21,000 feet above sea level, Singh declared that Siachen is not merely a piece of land, but a symbol of India’s sovereignty and determination. The Defence Minister’s visit came a week after the Indian Army marked the 40th anniversary of ‘Operation Meghdoot,’ an operation to secure the strategic glacier area.
Rajnath Singh shared that he had planned to celebrate Holi with the soldiers on March 24 but was unable to reach them due to inclement weather. However, he promised to visit soon, and he was glad to finally meet them at the world’s highest battlefield. He distributed sweets and exchanged “belated” Holi greetings with the soldiers, acknowledging their relentless dedication to defending India’s borders. “Indian citizens sleep freely as your Bravehearts remain awake here and elsewhere,” he said.
Rajnath Singh Hails Army Jawans, Calls Siachen the “Capital of Bravery”
The Defence Minister reaffirmed that the nation will always be indebted to the Armed Forces for their sacrifices, emphasizing that their courage allows the country to lead a peaceful life. He stated, “In the times to come, when the history of national security is written, the acts of bravery and iron-clad will of our soldiers in the icy cold glacier will be remembered with pride. It will forever be an inspiration for future generations.”
During his visit, Rajnath Singh was accompanied by Army Chief General Manoj Pande, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Northern Command Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar, and General Officer Commanding 14 Corps Lieutenant General Rashim Bali. The Defence Minister conducted an aerial reconnaissance of the Siachen glacier and obtained a first-hand assessment of the security situation, interacting with soldiers deployed in the extreme weather and challenging terrain.
Additionally, the Defence Minister laid a wreath at the Siachen War Memorial to pay tribute to the Bravehearts who sacrificed their lives in service to the nation. Singh’s visit underscores the government’s commitment to supporting the soldiers and caring for their families. It also highlights the vital role of the Indian Army in ensuring the nation’s security and sovereignty.
