War memorial to come up in Shahpur, says Pathania

In a poignant tribute to the courage and sacrifice of Indian soldiers, Deputy Chief Whip Kewal Singh Pathania on Sunday announced that a war memorial will be constructed in Shahpur to honour martyrs. Addressing a felicitation ceremony organised at Dharamsala by the Shahpur Block of the Ex-Services League, he said that land for the memorial has already been identified.

Calling himself a proud “son of Shahpur”, Pathania reflected on his childhood, recalling the profound impact soldiers had on rural communities. “They were trendsetters in our villages — the most trained, disciplined and exposure-rich community,” he noted, urging for greater social engagement of ex-servicemen.

He highlighted Himachal Pradesh’s distinguished military tradition, pointing out that the state has produced four Param Vir Chakra awardees, two Ashok Chakra, 10 Mahavir Chakra and 25 Kirti Chakra winners. Kangra district, he emphasised, has given the nation two Param Vir Chakra heroes — Major Somnath Sharma and Captain Vikram Batra.

Applauding the welfare measures of the Sukhu-led government, Pathania said compensation for martyr families has been enhanced from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 30 lakh, while assistance for natural deaths has been raised from Rs 5 lakh to Rs 7.5 lakh.

Several brave individuals were honoured on the occasion, including Col Jai Singh (VSM), along with Veer Naris Pinky Devi and Sushma Devi. A touching poem, Shaheed Ki Maa by Sunita Bohra, moved many to tears, while Savitri Devi’s patriotic presentation drew applause.

The Changar Ex-Servicemen Cell also contributed Rs 50,000 to the Chief Minister’s Disaster Relief Fund. The memorial, Pathania said, will stand as an enduring reminder of Himachal’s valiant sons and their sacrifices.