Gen VP Malik pays tributes to martyrs

Chandigarh, December 7

To mark National Flag Day and to set the stage for the upcoming Military Literature Festival, three former chiefs, along with others, paid tributes to the martyrs at the Chandigarh War Memorial here today.

Wreaths were laid at the memorial by former service chiefs — Gen VP Malik, Air Chief Marshal BS Dhanoa and Admiral Sunil Lanba. A guard of honour was presented by a contingent from the Punjab Police as pipes and drums belted out martial tunes. NCC cadets and students from local schools as well as people from all walks of life paid tributes to the martyrs.

After the wreath-laying ceremony, the former service chiefs, along with Lt Gen TS Shergil (retd), Senior Adviser to the Punjab Chief Minister, flagged off the Bravehearts Motorcycle Ride. Streaming out from outside the Chandigarh Club, as many as 425 riders, including serving and retired defence officers, amplified the state government’s anti-drug drive by urging the youth to shun the use of drugs and live their lives with verve, vigour and dignity. The ride witnessed 12 groups join the veterans on National Flag Day.

Canadian Consular General in Chandigarh, Mia Yen, Director of the Yadvindra Public School, Mohali, Maj Gen TPS Waraich (retd) and Senior Adviser Karanveer Singh were present. The festival is an initiative of Punjab CM Capt Amarinder Singh, Governor VP Singh Badnore and the Army’s Western Command. The festival will be held from December 13 to 15. — TNS