SRINAGAR: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday visited Akhnoor in Jammu and Kashmir to commemorate Armed Forces Veterans’ Day, engaging with ex-servicemen and paying tribute to their contributions.
Addressing the gathering, he underscored the government’s focus on narrowing the divide between Kashmir and the rest of India, calling it a top priority.
“On Makar Sankranti, a day for family, I have come here to celebrate with you all. Veterans’ Day is a momentous occasion. Our commitment remains steadfast in bringing Kashmir closer to the heart of India,” Singh stated at the 9th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day event.
ALSO READ: World’s highest battlefield Siachen now powered by 5G
He acknowledged the region’s historical importance, referencing the 1965 Indo-Pak war fought in Akhnoor.
“India thwarted Pakistan’s efforts during the war, emerging victorious. Unfortunately, the cross-border terrorism they initiated persists even today, with over 80% of infiltrators originating from Pakistan,” he remarked, adding that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) remains integral to India’s vision of Jammu and Kashmir.
“PoK’s land is exploited for terrorism and training camps, which Pakistan must dismantle or face consequences,” Singh warned, emphasizing the strategic significance of reclaiming PoK for the nation’s unity.
ALSO READ: J&K ACB books retired Engineer for crores in assets
The event, organized under Northern
SRINAGAR: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday visited Akhnoor in Jammu and Kashmir to commemorate Armed Forces Veterans’ Day, engaging with ex-servicemen and paying tribute to their contributions.
Addressing the gathering, he underscored the government’s focus on narrowing the divide between Kashmir and the rest of India, calling it a top priority.
“On Makar Sankranti, a day for family, I have come here to celebrate with you all. Veterans’ Day is a momentous occasion. Our commitment remains steadfast in bringing Kashmir closer to the heart of India,” Singh stated at the 9th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day event.
ALSO READ: World’s highest battlefield Siachen now powered by 5G
He acknowledged the region’s historical importance, referencing the 1965 Indo-Pak war fought in Akhnoor.
“India thwarted Pakistan’s efforts during the war, emerging victorious. Unfortunately, the cross-border terrorism they initiated persists even today, with over 80% of infiltrators originating from Pakistan,” he remarked, adding that Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) remains integral to India’s vision of Jammu and Kashmir.
“PoK’s land is exploited for terrorism and training camps, which Pakistan must dismantle or face consequences,” Singh warned, emphasizing the strategic significance of reclaiming PoK for the nation’s unity.
ALSO READ: J&K ACB books retired Engineer for crores in assets
The event, organized under Northern Command, honored over 1,000 veterans from areas like Jammu, Naushera, and Sunderbani. Distinguished attendees included Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, J&K Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, and Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), alongside senior military officials.
The celebrations featured the hoisting of a 108-foot National Flag and the inauguration of the Akhnoor Heritage Museum. The J&K Cultural Department added vibrancy with performances showcasing regional traditions.
As a gesture of gratitude, mobility aids such as motorized wheelchairs, e-scooters, and autorickshaws were distributed to veterans. Singh commended their service, stating that their sacrifices remain the cornerstone of the nation’s security and sovereignty.
Armed Forces Veterans’ Day, held annually on January 14, commemorates Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army. The day has been marked since 2016 to honor ex-servicemen’s contributions to the nation.
The event also highlighted the Army Day Parade tradition, tracing its evolution from Delhi to rotating venues across India, celebrating India’s military legacy.
