Fully prepared to protect nation’s integrity: Rajnath Singh

Tribune News Service

New Delhi, November 18

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today said, “We are fully prepared to protect the integrity of the nation and to give a befitting reply to anyone who threatens our sovereignty and integrity.” He was speaking after paying homage to mark the 59th anniversary of the battle of Rezang La.

Tribute to valiant armed forces

Rezang La Memorial is a tribute to our valiant armed forces and a symbol of our preparedness to protect the country’s integrity. Rajnath Singh, Defence Minister

Rezang La sits close to the Line of Actual Control (LAC) in eastern Ladakh. India and China fought a pitched battle in the area in 1962 and the area was militarily tense during the ingoing standoff between the two countries.

Rajnath Singh dedicated to the nation a renovated Rezang La Memorial at Chushul in Ladakh. At the function he said, “Memorial is a tribute to our valiant armed forces and a symbol of our preparedness to protect the country’s integrity.”

He said the “C” company of the 13th battalion of Kumaon regiment and its bravery would inspire future generations. The company headed by Major Shaitan Singh had fought a battle to the “last man, last bullet”.

The memorial was first constructed in 1963 in the Chushul plains, at an altitude of over 15,000 feet and has seen several renovations. The decision to renovate the memorial was taken by Rajnath Singh when he visited Leh in June 2021. The renovation has been done without compromising with the original structure and sentiments attached to it.

The renovated complex includes a double-storied museum, a mini-theatre to screen a special documentary on the battle, a large helipad and various other tourist amenities.

Those associated with 13 Kumaon, including Brigadier RV Jatar (retd), who participated in the battle as a Captain; Major Shaitan Singh’s son Narpat Singh Bhati and the family of the then Commanding Officer of Lt Col HS Dhingra and other veterans also attended the event and were felicitated.

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