2nd military lit fest begins in city
Patiala, February 2
With the splendour of Indian Army taking centre stage, the second edition of Military Literature Festival commenced at Khalsa College here today. The two-day event is a part of Patiala Heritage Festival.
Patiala DC Showkat Ahmed Parray said the youth must get insights into military history in order to immerse themselves in military literature. He highlighted the positive impact that studying military history could have on the youth, adding that it can contribute to improving national and global security.
Parray also expressed gratitude to the Military Literature Festival Association and the Indian Army for their unwavering support in making the second edition of the festival a success.
He also said that spreading awareness about military history could prove decisive in students’ personal development and help transform their perspectives on life, security and the role of the armed forces in India and across the world. He also talked about the important role Patiala played in the nation’s military history.
Military Literature Festival Association Chairman Gen JTS Shergill praised the efforts made by the officials concerned in organising the festival. Major General Puneet Ahuja, commander of the Patiala-based Black Elephant division, highlighted the spirit of bravery, valour and sacrifice in the blood of all Punjabis.
Panel discussions, including on national and international topics — such as Punjabi war stories, Ukraine war, Israel-Hamas conflict, Pakistan-Iran conflict — and their national/global implications were held.
Special dialogue programmes featured the presentation of bravery awards to military officers and veterans. Five women of Patiala district were among those honoured.
Military equipment displays — including tanks, bands, martial arts demonstrations, vintage jeeps, archery competitions and exhibitions of heritage items — fascinated most of the visitors. Information booths set up by the Army’s recruitment wing, and district employment and business bureau, saw a huge turnout of the youth aspiring to join the armed forces, police, and security services.
