This Diwali ‘Vocal for Local’ should be our mission to boost self-reliance : LG Sinha
Shadow Correspondent
Jammu, Oct 14:
The Lieutenant Governor, Manoj Sinha, today paid tribute to martyrs and felicitated ex-servicemen to mark commemoration of Diamond Jubilee of India’s victory over Pakistan in 1965 war. The event was organised by Western Command and 26 Infantry Division in Jammu.
Addressing a mega rally of Ex-servicemen, the Lieutenant Governor said that 1965 war victory and recent Operation Sindoor was the result of the valour and sacrifice of soldiers of Indian armed forces which is considered among the strongest across the globe.
The Lieutenant Governor recalled the sacrifice of 1965 war heroes and paid homage to all the martyrs who made the supreme sacrifice, defending the sovereignty and integrity of India.
He said the abode of soldiers, who are the first line of defence against terror country Pakistan is a sacred land.
“Unwavering devotion to ex-servicemen is the fundamental foundation of my policies. Personally, for me the land of veterans is no less than a pilgrimage site. Our veterans have made immense contribution in economic growth, social transformation and the resurgence of a glorious India,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He recalled the valour of 26 Infantry Division during Operation Sindoor and army’s selfless work in saving people’s lives during recent natural calamities.
“Operation Sindoor gave a message to the world that we will avenge every drop of Indian citizen’s blood. No one can dare raise their eyes towards our country,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor called upon ex-servicemen to contribute to society by applying their leadership skill and discipline in ongoing community service, and civic action programmes.
“Our ex-servicemen are role models for the youth. They must guide the young generation on the righteous path and teach them the values of patriotism, discipline, and selfless service,” he further said.
The Lieutenant Governor urged all sections of society to honor the sacrifices and dedication of security
No one can
forces’ brave hearts. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that our veterans and the families of our martyrs live a dignified life, he said.
Lt Gen. Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Western Command; Lt Gen. Rajan Sharawat, GOC, 9 Corps; Maj Gen. Mukesh Bhanwala, GoC, 26 Infantry Division; Shri Ramesh Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Jammu; Lt Gen RK Sharma (Retd.), President, J&K Ex-Services League; Brig. Gurmeet Singh Shan (Retd.), Director, Sainik Welfare, J&K; senior officials of Security forces, Police and Civil Administration; war veterans, ex-servicemen and veer naris were present.
Meanwhile, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha inaugurated the J&K Police’s Diwali Mela -2025 at Gulshan Ground, Jammu today. He paid tributes to the Bravehearts of J&K Police who devoted their lives in the service of the nation.
The Lieutenant Governor has urged the people to buy Swadeshi and products made by Self-help Groups and local artisans.
“Let us boost our local economy, empower local entrepreneurs, increase employment and strengthen the overall economic position of UT of Jammu Kashmir,” he said.
The Lieutenant Governor said this Diwali ‘Vocal for Local’ should be our mission to boost self-reliance and national pride.
“All the families should buy handicrafts, handloom and other traditional products as a gift for Diwali. This will instil patriotism among people and support small businesses,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Mela organised by Jammu and Kashmir Police, in collaboration with the Police Wives Welfare Association (PWWA), features a wide range of attractions for the people. These include food and shopping stalls, public awareness programmes, Career counselling and educational stalls, live magic show, police band display, spectacular laser show, and fireworks.
DGP, Shri Nalin Prabhat; ADGP Headquarters, Shri MK Sinha; ADGP Armed, Shri Anand Jain; IGP Jammu, Shri Bhim Sen Tuti; Divisional Commissioner Jammu, Shri Ramesh Kumar; serving and retired officials of Police and civil administration, members of Police Wives Welfare Association and a large number of citizens attended the inaugural ceremony.
