Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria pays tribute to martyrs

As a prelude to the eighth edition of the Military Literature Festival (MLF), Governor of Punjab and Administrator of Chandigarh Gulab Chand Kataria paid tribute to martyrs by laying a wreath at the Chandigarh War Memorial here today.

The two-day main event will be held here on November 30 and December 1.

A ceremonial guard from the Punjab Police reversed arms as a mark of respect to the fallen soldiers and a two-minute silence was observed in memory of those who made the supreme sacrifice.

Speaking on the occasion, the Governor said the valour and sacrifices of the martyrs continued to inspire future generations and exhorted the youth to embrace the noble path of serving the nation with the same courage and dedication shown by these heroes.

Stating that even today the youngsters have great fascination for the armed forces, Kataria said the future of the country would be shaped by them. “If they are dedicated and honest in their work, the country will progress and achieve the aim of becoming a developed nation by 2047,” he added.

Former Chief of the Army Staff Gen VP Malik, former Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa and MLF Association Chairman Lt Gen TS Shergill (Retd) were among those present on the occasion.

Later, a Bravehearts Motorcycle Ride was also flagged off from Chandigarh to the Chandimandir Military Station as part of the 25th anniversary commemoration of the victory in the 1999 Kargil conflict and in remembrance of those who fought the war. As many as 800 motorbikes with riders from 43 motorcycle clubs and members of the armed forces took part in the event.