Sherathang, Sikkim: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh celebrated Diwali with personnel of the Indian Army’s Trishakti Corps (33 Corps) in the forward areas of Sikkim on November 8, 2026. During his visit, he interacted with soldiers deployed along the borders, commended their commitment to national security and paid homage to personnel who lost their lives in the line of duty.
The Defence Minister was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, Eastern Army Commander Lieutenant General VMB Krishnan, 33 Corps General Officer Commanding Lieutenant General Man Raj Singh Mann and other senior Army officers.
Rajnath Singh Calls Soldiers the ‘Brightest Lights’ of Diwali
Addressing the troops at Sherathang, Singh described the soldiers as the real lights of the festival, highlighting how their vigilance allows people across the country to celebrate Diwali in peace.
He acknowledged the challenges faced by personnel serving in high-altitude border areas, often away from their families during important festivals. He praised their professionalism, morale and dedication to protecting the country’s borders.
The Defence Minister also stressed that technological advancement alone cannot ensure operational effectiveness without discipline and courage among soldiers.
Focus on Discipline and Army’s Bond with Local Communities
During his interaction, Singh highlighted the importance of the conduct and professional standards maintained by military personnel, noting that their behaviour influences how local communities perceive the armed forces.
He urged the soldiers to preserve and strengthen the relationship of trust and goodwill between the Army and residents of Sherathang and neighbouring areas.
Key aspects of his address included:
- Professionalism: Maintaining high standards of duty and commitment while serving in difficult terrain.
- Discipline and courage: Upholding these qualities alongside the adoption of modern military technology.
- Public relations: Building confidence and goodwill among people living in border areas.
- Commitment to duty: Continuing to serve the country despite personal sacrifices and separation from families.
Defence Minister Pays Tribute at Sherathang War Memorial
Singh also visited the Sherathang War Memorial and laid tribute to soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. He subsequently visited the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial and paid his respects.
Speaking about the significance of war memorials, he said they preserve the memory of military sacrifices while inspiring national pride and a sense of collective responsibility.
He recalled that the soldiers commemorated at the Sherathang memorial came from different parts of the country, including Nagaland, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Assam. Their service, he said, reflected the unity of the country beyond differences of region, language and community.
National War Memorial Commemorates Around 26,000 Fallen Soldiers
The Defence Minister also referred to the National War Memorial in New Delhi, established by the government under Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honour soldiers who laid down their lives in service of the nation.
According to Singh, the memorial carries the names of approximately 26,000 fallen personnel inscribed in golden letters. He said these inscriptions offer a lasting tribute to the soldiers and provide their families and communities with a source of pride.
He emphasised that war memorials serve not only as reminders of past sacrifices but also as places of inspiration for present and future generations.
The Diwali visit brought the Defence Minister into direct interaction with Army personnel serving in Sikkim’s forward areas, recognising their role in border security and the sacrifices involved in military service.
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