During Armed Forces Veterans’ Day celebrations in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, on Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the nation’s ex-servicemen and acknowledged the affection of the people towards soldiers.
“Today is Veteran’s Day. Even today when I am present among you all, I feel the gratitude that the citizens of this country have towards their soldiers,” Singh said in his address.
“Every citizen of this country, no matter which region he/she belongs to has a special affection towards our soldiers. Therefore, today on the occasion of Veteran’s Day, on behalf of a grateful nation, I salute all our ex-servicemen for their service to the country,” he added.
Singh took part in the eight Armed Forces Veterans Day ceremonies held on Sunday at the Air Force Station in Kanpur. While speaking at the function, Singh emphasized Kanpur’s military historic significance.
“It is no less than a coincidence that we have gathered at a place like Kanpur to honour our veterans. Kanpur has its importance in the category of military history of this country,” the Defence Minister outlined.
“When India’s freedom struggle began in 1857, Peshwa Nanasaheb led the rebellion from Bithoor in Kanpur,” he said.
“Lakshmi Sehgal ji was the first woman captain of the Indian National Army formed by Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose during the freedom struggle. She also had a close relationship with Kanpur. She even spent the last moments of her life in Kanpur,” he added.