Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conducted Shastra Puja at Sukhana Cantonment in honor of Vijaya Dashami, celebrating the festival with Army personnel. Visuals showed the minister applying tilak on the foreheads of the soldiers.
In his address, Singh conveyed warm wishes to the troops, emphasizing the crucial role of the armed forces in ensuring national security. “Thanks to the vigilant presence of our armed forces at the borders, the likelihood of any incidents is minimal. However, given the current situation, we must remain vigilant against any potential threats from neighboring countries. Since taking over the defence ministry, I have stressed the importance of preparedness, regardless of the global context. We must always be ready with all options,” he stated.
He also highlighted the qualities of Lord Ram in soldiers, saying, “You have been observing this ritual for years. Today signifies victory, as well as Lord Ram’s triumph over Ravan, symbolizing a victory for humanity. I see the essence of Lord Ram in our soldiers. Our nation has only launched attacks on other countries when our culture has been insulted, not out of hatred. Once again, I wish everyone a happy Vijayadashami.”
In other news, the National Investigation Agency (NIA) filed a chargesheet against Wadhawa Singh Babbar, chief of the Pakistan-based Babbar Khalsa International (BKI), and five other terrorists for their involvement in the murder of VHP leader Vikas Prabhakar Bagga in Punjab. Bagga was shot dead by a BKI module in his confectionery shop in Nangal, Roopnagar district, on April 13, 2024.