Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has said the Centre’s aim is to implement the resolution unanimously passed in the Indian Parliament on 22nd February 1994, to reclaim the remaining parts of Kashmir such as Gilgit and Baltistan in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. Attending the ‘Shaurya Diwas’ celebrations in Srinagar today to commemorate the air-landed operations of the Indian Army at Budgam Airport in 1947, which ensured the first civil-military victory of Independent India, the Defence Minister pointed out that some areas illegally occupied by Pakistan are still devoid of that progress and Pakistan is fully responsible for inhuman incidents against innocent Indians in PoK. In the times to come, Pakistan will face the result of its atrocities. Mr Rajnath Singh added that post-independence the people of J&K were deprived of development and tranquillity for decades, until the Government, led by Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, came to the helm and abrogated Article 370, bringing a new era of peace and progress in the Union Territory (UT).
Shri Rajnath Singh asserted that any violation of the fundamental rights of a human being is not acceptable in an ideal society. This has been our commitment. The doors of development & peace have now been opened in J&K and Ladakh, with the people of the two UTs reaping the benefits of the welfare schemes of the Government of India. There is unity among the people who are moving forward hand-in-hand..
Shri Rajnath Singh stated that this ‘Shaurya Diwas’ gives the nation an opportunity to remember the valour of the Bravehearts and inspires the people to take the country to greater heights with unity and dedication. The Raksha Mantri said, Major Somnath Sharma and other heroes will always remain a source of inspiration for every Indian and the Nation will forever be indebted to their sacrifices. He also remembered former Chief Minister of Odisha Biju Patnaik, who as a pilot during the war, made a valuable contribution to the movement of the troops. He commended the crucial role played by the people of J&K who helped the Armed Forces in forcing the enemies to retreat and protect the sovereignty of the country. Shri Rajnath Singh termed the campaign of 27 October 1947 as one for safeguarding the country’s territorial integrity as well as the safety of the people.
Army Chief General Manoj Pande who was present on the occasion conveyed his best wishes to all ranks, veterans, veer naris and families of the Infantry. Talking exclusively to All India Radio, Director General Infantry, Lieutenant General A K Samantara said the Infantry is always combat ready to deal with any situation. The Lt General said, the Infantry is equipping itself with new technologies and capabilities to tackle future challenges.
On 27th October 1947, Indian Army troops were transported by the Indian Air Force to Budgam Airport to evict Pakistan forces from J-K, a day after the ‘Instrument of Accession was signed between Maharaja Hari Singh and the Republic of India. The day is celebrated as ‘Infantry Day’.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has arrived in Kasmir to attend the Infantry Day and participate in the Indian Air Force Golden Jubilee Celebrations on the establishment of its headquarters at Srinagar. The Defence Minister will also review the security situation on the Line of Control (LoC) with Pakistan at 15 Corps Headquarters later in the day. The Defence Minister will later proceed to Leh on a two-day visit to Ladakh.
