On a radiant Sunday in Leh, Defense Minister Rajnath Singh, joined by Army Chief General Manoj Pande and the Fire & Fury Corps’ Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, reveled in the colorful festivities of Holi with the troops. The minister hailed the soldiers' valor and steadfast commitment in his address.
Addressing the troops on the occasion of Holi, Rajnath Singh asserted that despite the freezing temperatures and high-altitude postings, the soldiers' positive dedication is firmer than the chill. He likened the strategic importance of various Indian cities, calling Ladakh the 'Capital of Valor,' just as New Delhi is the national capital, Mumbai the financial hub, and Bangalore the IT stronghold.
The nation will always be indebted to our soldiers
He continued by expressing how secure the entire country feels, knowing brave soldiers are guarding the borders. Every citizen takes pride in the armed forces, who stay far from their families so we can peacefully celebrate festivals like Holi with our loved ones. The nation will always owe a debt of gratitude to our soldiers, whose courage and sacrifice will inspire future generations.
Emphasizing his point, the Defense Minister mentioned his deliberate decision to celebrate Holi with the troops a day prior, believing that festivals should first be celebrated with the nation's defenders. He urged the chiefs of all armed forces to establish a new tradition of celebrating with the troops in advance.
He also proposed that such celebrations on the frozen peaks of Kargil, the scorching deserts of Rajasthan, and deep within submarines at sea should become an integral part of our culture.
Tribute to the martyred soldiers
On this occasion, Rajnath Singh paid homage to the valorous martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice for the country, laying wreaths at the war memorial in Leh. Following this, the minister spoke to soldiers stationed in the world's highest battlefield, Siachen, over the phone, extending Holi greetings and sharing plans to visit them soon.
Please note that although Rajnath Singh had plans to celebrate Holi in Siachen, his schedule was altered due to adverse weather conditions, leading him to celebrate with the troops in Leh instead.
