New Delhi: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Diwali with Indian Army personnel at the Sherathang War Memorial near Nathula in Sikkim on Sunday, honouring soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the service of the nation.
Located along the India-China border, the memorial holds historical significance as a tribute to Indian soldiers who displayed exceptional courage during the 1967 Nathula and Cho La clashes between Indian and Chinese forces.
Singh reached Sherathang by helicopter from the Sukna Army Base in West Bengal, accompanied by Chief of Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth and other senior Army officials.
During the visit, the Defence Minister extended Diwali greetings to the troops, personally distributed sweets among the soldiers and paid floral tributes at the war memorial to honour the fallen heroes.
Addressing the personnel, Singh said the country’s ability to celebrate festivals peacefully was possible because of the dedication, discipline and sacrifices of the armed forces.
He described the courage and determination of soldiers as the biggest lights of Diwali, comparing every jawan serving at the border to a traditional lamp illuminating the nation.
Drawing a comparison between the festival of lights and military service, Singh said soldiers work silently to protect the country, just as a diya fights darkness without making a sound. Their presence, he added, gives confidence and a sense of security to people across the country.
The Defence Minister also highlighted the importance of discipline and courage in modern warfare, stressing that technological advancements alone could not guarantee success without determined and disciplined soldiers.
He described the Sherathang War Memorial as a lasting tribute to the bravery of Indian soldiers and said such monuments preserve the sacrifices of national heroes in history.
Singh further emphasised that war memorials serve as sources of inspiration for future generations, ensuring that the courage and dedication of those who defended the country are never forgotten.
