New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh attended the 'Shaurya Diwas' celebrations in Srinagar, Jammu & Kashmir (J&K), on Thursday to commemorate the 75th year of air landed operations of the Indian Army at Budgam Airport in 1947, which ensured the first civil-military victory of Independent India. The event was organised as part of 'Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav.'
On October 27, 1947, the Indian Army was inducted by the Indian Air Force at Budgam Airport to evict Pakistani forces from J&K, a day after the 'Instrument of Accession' was signed between Maharaja Hari Singh and Republic of India. Hence, October 27 is celebrated as 'Infantry Day'.
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. "We are moving forward with the spirit of unity. We must resolve to fight together against any divisive forces which may come in the way of our development in the future," he said.
During the event, the replication of the historic event was organised to pay obeisance to the brave soldiers and people of J&K. The Defence Minister, along with the citizens, witnessed the re-enactment of history, covering the violation of 'Standstill Agreement' by Pakistan. The event also depicted the arrival of the Indian Army on October 27, 1947, to evict the Pakistani Forces. A stunning airshow was organised by the Indian Air Force, which mesmerised the audience. The Next of Kin of war veterans, who travelled from across the country, were felicitated at the event.
In his address, the Defence Minister paid tributes to the heroes of the Armed Forces & the people of J&K who laid down their lives to protect the unity and integrity of the country. He stated that it is because of their valour and sacrifice that J&K remained an integral part of India and will continue to be in the future.
Singh recalled the valour of the first Param Vir Chakra recipient, Major Somnath Sharma, who despite being injured led a company and saved the Srinagar airfield from enemy clutches and in the process made the supreme sacrifice. He also paid tributes to the bravery of other Gallantry award winners such as Brigadier Rajinder Singh and Lt Col Dewan Ranjit Rai, who sacrificed their lives to protect India.
Lieutenant Governor of J&K Manoj Sinha, Chief of Army Staff General Manoj Pande; GOC-in-C, Northern Command Lieutenant General Upendra Dwivedi; Air Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Air Command Air Marshal S Prabhakaran; General Officer Commanding, 15 Corps Lieutenant General ADS Aujla, along with several other civil and military dignitaries attended the event.
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