Leh: Accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Manoj Pande and General Officer Commanding, Fire and Fury Corps Lt Gen Rashim Bali, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh marked the festival of colours, Holi, with soldiers in Leh on Sunday. Originally slated to visit the Siachen area, the world's highest battlefield, for the celebrations, inclement weather conditions thwarted the plan. Nonetheless, Singh assured the commanding officer at Siachen of a forthcoming visit, speaking to them over the phone.

Addressing the gathering of jawans and senior defence personnel, Singh emphasized the significance of Ladakh as a bastion of courage and fortitude. "If Delhi is our national capital, Ladakh is a capital of bravery and valour," he remarked, expressing his delight at celebrating Holi with the troops. "Siachen is no ordinary land. It is an unshakeable symbol of India's sovereignty and determination," he added, underlining its pivotal role in national security.

Reaffirming the government's commitment to the welfare of armed forces personnel and their families, Singh stated, "It is our duty to take care of you, your children, your parents...your family." He assured them of the government's unwavering support, acknowledging their dedication to the nation. In a bid to foster camaraderie and solidarity among the armed forces, Singh proposed a new tradition, urging Army Chief Manoj Pande to initiate celebrations with soldiers and personnel deployed at the frontiers on the eve of festivals. This gesture, he believed, would underscore the nation's gratitude and appreciation for their service and sacrifices.

Singh lauded the vigilance and readiness of the armed forces across diverse terrains, from the snowy peaks of Kargil to the arid deserts of Rajasthan and the depths of the sea. He commended their unwavering commitment to safeguarding the nation's sovereignty against external threats, irrespective of the challenges encountered.

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