Raksha Mantri Celebrates Deepawali with Troops in Forward Areas of Sikkim – Indian PSU

Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh celebrated Deepawali with soldiers of the Trishakti Corps (33 Corps) deployed in the forward areas of Sikkim on November 8, 2026. He was accompanied by Chief of the Army Staff General Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command, Lt Gen VMB Krishnan, General Officer Commanding, 33 Corps, Lt Gen Man Raj Singh Mann, and other senior Indian Army officers.

Interacting with soldiers at Sherathang, Rajnath Singh described them as the brightest lights of Diwali, saying their dedication and vigilance at the borders provide the entire nation with a sense of security.

“Like a lamp which dispels darkness without seeking attention, soldiers perform their duties silently, ensuring that citizens can celebrate festivals with peace and security,” he said.

He commended the soldiers for their professionalism, high morale and steadfast commitment to safeguarding the nation’s borders in challenging high-altitude conditions. He urged them to continue protecting the country with the same enthusiasm and dedication.

He acknowledged the sacrifices of soldiers who serve far away from their families, placing their duty to the nation above personal interests and celebrations.

Emphasising the importance of discipline and courage, Rajnath Singh said that no matter how advanced technology becomes, it is of little use if a soldier lacks these qualities.

He also underlined that the conduct, uniform, language and restraint of military personnel shape the image of the armed forces among local communities. He urged soldiers to continue strengthening the bond of trust and goodwill between the Indian Army and the local population in Sherathang and surrounding areas.

Rajnath Singh paid homage at the Sherathang War Memorial to soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. He also visited the Baba Harbhajan Singh Memorial and paid tribute to the revered soldier whose legacy continues to hold a special place in the military-civil traditions of the region.

Highlighting the significance of the Sherathang War Memorial, he said such monuments do more than commemorate historical events and sacrifices; they shape collective memory and awaken national consciousness and pride.

He pointed out that the soldiers honoured at the memorial belonged to different parts of the country, including Nagaland, Uttar Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan and Assam. These brave soldiers laid down their lives to protect people irrespective of their region, language or community.

He said this spirit of unity and selfless service represents the soul and ethos of India, where every citizen considers fellow Indians members of one family.

Rajnath Singh also highlighted the establishment of the National War Memorial in New Delhi under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi to honour soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation.

Approximately 26,000 names of fallen heroes have been inscribed in golden letters at the National War Memorial in recognition of their unmatched valour and sacrifice.

He said seeing the name of a fallen soldier at the memorial evokes a deep sense of pride among their families, relatives and people from their native villages and regions. Such memorials serve as sources of inspiration for present and future generations.