Rajnath Singh Emphasises Discipline and Courage Among Soldiers in Sikkim

GANGTOK, Nov 8: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Sunday highlighted discipline, courage and unwavering commitment as the defining qualities of the armed forces, stating that even the most sophisticated military technology would prove ineffective without these essential attributes.

Addressing Army officers and soldiers at a programme held at the Sherathang War Memorial in Sikkim, Singh said discipline remained the foundation of military strength and played a crucial role in ensuring operational effectiveness.

He observed that technological advancements alone could not guarantee success on the battlefield, emphasising that the determination and character of soldiers were equally important.

Marking the occasion of Diwali, the Defence Minister paid tribute to personnel who had made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. He also conveyed his greetings to their families, acknowledging their contribution and sacrifice.

Reflecting on his visit to the memorial, Singh said the inspiration and strength he experienced there were difficult to express in words. In a Facebook post, he noted that memorials were built not merely to commemorate those who had lost their lives but also to motivate future generations.

He said such monuments served as enduring reminders of bravery, sacrifice and national pride, adding that the country would remain forever grateful to its soldiers for their extraordinary courage and dedication.

During the visit, Singh also interacted with Army personnel stationed in forward areas, recognising the difficult conditions under which they perform their duties.

Comparing the soldiers to traditional Diwali lamps, he said they worked tirelessly to keep the darkness away and ensure safety and security for citizens across the country.

Despite harsh weather conditions and challenging geographical terrain, Army personnel continued to maintain a strong vigil, displaying exceptional patriotism and high morale, he said.

Singh described celebrating Diwali alongside soldiers guarding the nation’s borders as a matter of immense pride and honour.

He further stressed that the behaviour and professional conduct of Army personnel significantly influenced how local communities perceived the armed forces.

According to him, their discipline, appearance, communication and restraint helped strengthen public confidence and reflected the values and traditions of the military.

Concluding his interaction, Singh reiterated that the dedication of soldiers extended far beyond their designated deployment areas, as their constant vigilance helped safeguard millions of families throughout the country.