New Delhi Jan 15 (Bureau) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that the Indian military is not only focussing on tradition, but is also bringing about a positive change through new innovations and ideas. “The tradition cannot be set in a state of inertia; it should flow continuously and mould according to the changing times,” the Minister said at the Shaurya Sandhya’ organised at Lucknow Cantonment in Uttar Pradesh, as part of the 76th Army Day celebrations. He also voiced the Government’s unwavering resolve of strengthening the Armed Forces and said that the Ministry of Finance, without any hesitation, releases funds sought by the Ministry of Defence, which symbolises the Government’s dedication towards the soldiers, an official statement said here. While speaking about the unique character of an Indian soldier, which is rooted in the cultural values of the country, Rajnath described patriotism, courage, humanity and loyalty towards the Indian constitution as the four most important qualities of a soldier.
The Minister said, “The contribution of our soldiers in UN peacekeeping operations and relief & rescue during disasters, as well as the respect with which they treated 90,000 Pakistani troops during the 1971 war is proof that they possess humanity. In our own neighbourhood, we can witness the disconnect between the military and their constitutional values. But, the Indian military’s devotion towards the constitutional values is incomparable and recognised by all,”. He highlighted the fact that the Indian military is not only focussing on tradition, but is also bringing about a positive change through new innovations and ideas. He was of the view that tradition cannot be set in a state of inertia; it should flow continuously and mould according to the changing times. “The country is now witnessing how our military is continuously being equipped with modern weapons/technologies powered by drones and artificial intelligence, as well as the growing role of women in the Armed Forces.
Not every person gets the opportunity to join the military, but those who witnessed today’s event were able to experience the preparedness of our military to protect the nation. This has brought people closer to our soldiers. It will definitely inspire our youth to join the Armed Forces or serve the nation with the same dedication and commitment as our soldiers,” Singh said. A thrilling display by the Daredevils motorcycle team of the Indian Army as well as Tent pegging & trick riding by eight horses of the Remount Veterinary Corps also enthralled the spectators. The static display included Akash Missiles, K9 Vajra, Anti-Drone equipment, Bofors guns, artillery weapons systems and other equipment and technology used by the Indian Army. A combat free fall from 8,000 feet was carried out by 12 Indian Army personnel. Su-30 MKI, Surya Kiran aerobatic team and Advanced Light Helicopters lit up the skies during ‘Shaurya Sandhya’.