Jammu: Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday paid tributes to the freedom fighters who laid down their lives since independence for the country. He also stated that the nation has become strong against the ones casting ‘evil eye’ on India.
“India has become a strong and confident nation which is well-equipped to protect its people from anyone who tries to cast an evil eye,” said the Union Minister. Singh was speaking at an event organised to commemorate ‘Kargil Vijay Diwas’ in Jammu on July 24, 2022.
He further said it was the spirit of national pride at the core of their values that protected the unity and integrity of India.
The Union Minister said, “Our priority is to achieve Aatmanirbharta in Defence as it is central to developing a robust security apparatus for the safety and security of the nation. To realise this vision, 68% of the defence budget has been earmarked for procurement of defence equipment from domestic sources.”
Sharing his views on the numerous challenges faced by India post-independence, Rajnath Singh said, the entire area of Jammu and Kashmir (J&K) and Ladakh became the ‘Main War Theatre’ during 1948, 1962, 1965, 1971 and 1999 wars, when enemies tried to cast an evil eye, but whose plans were thwarted by the gallant Indian soldiers.
He spoke about the brave deeds of Brigadier Usman and Major Somnath Sharma in 1948; Major Shaitan Singh’s valour in 1962; India’s historic victory in 1971 war and the contribution of Kargil bravehearts Captain Vikram Batra and Captain Manoj Pandey who laid down their lives to protect the unity and integrity of India and continue to be an inspiration to the people, especially the youth.
He also paid respects to the Indian soldiers who displayed unmatched bravery during the Galwan valley incident and ensured that the Indian tricolour continues to fly high.
“After tasting defeats in direct wars of 1965 and 1971, Pakistan adopted the path of Proxy War. For over two decades, it has tried to ‘Bleed India with Thousand Cuts’,” said the minister.
“But, time and again, our brave soldiers have shown that no one can disturb the unity, integrity and sovereignty of India,” added Rajnath Singh assuring that the Armed Forces are ready to face all future challenges.
