Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Deepawali with troops of the Trishakti Corps (33 Corps) deployed in the forward areas of Sikkim on November 8, commending their courage, professionalism and unwavering commitment to securing the country’s borders under challenging high-altitude conditions.
Accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, Lt Gen VMB Krishnan, General Officer Commanding, 33 Corps, Lt Gen Man Raj Singh Mann, and other senior Army officers, Singh interacted with soldiers at Sherathang.
Describing the troops as the brightest lights of Deepawali, the Defence Minister said their vigilance and dedication at the borders instilled a sense of security across the country. Comparing soldiers to lamps that dispel darkness without seeking attention, he said their silent service enabled citizens to celebrate festivals in peace and security.
Singh praised the troops for maintaining high morale and steadfast dedication despite the hardships of serving in remote and inhospitable terrain, often away from their families during festive occasions. He urged them to continue protecting the nation with the same enthusiasm and commitment, placing national duty above personal celebrations.
Emphasising the enduring relevance of discipline and courage, Singh said advanced technology alone could not compensate for a soldier’s absence. He also highlighted the importance of the conduct, uniform, language and restraint of military personnel in shaping the Army’s image among local communities. He urged troops to strengthen the bond of trust and goodwill between the Army and residents of Sherathang and adjoining areas.
The Defence Minister also paid homage at the Sherathang War Memorial, honouring soldiers who laid down their lives in the service of the nation. He subsequently visited the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial to pay his respects to the revered soldier whose legacy remains deeply embedded in the military and civil traditions of the region.
Singh also highlighted the establishment of the National War Memorial in New Delhi under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honour fallen soldiers. Approximately 26,000 names of martyrs have been inscribed in golden letters at the memorial, he said, adding that the sight of a fallen soldier’s name evoked great pride among families, relatives and people from their native villages and regions.
Such memorials, he emphasised, served as enduring sources of inspiration for present and future generations, reinforcing the values of sacrifice, patriotism and national unity.
Team BharatShakti
