Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, May 13: Minister for Revenue, Relief and Rehabilitation Raman Bhalla today said that army has played a vital role in fighting militancy during Kargil conflict in 1999 and turmoil in Jammu and Kashmir, adding that their supreme sacrifices helped in restoring peace across the State.
This was stated by the Minister while addressing a gathering after unveiling statue of Maj Ajay Singh Jasrotia (Sena Medal) at Maj Jasrotia Park in Sainik Colony at a function organized by Shaheed Samark, here today.
Paying rich tributes to valiant soldiers who lost their lives while protecting the sovereignty of the country, he said like hundreds of army soldiers Maj Ajay Singh Jasrotia, sacrificed his life on June 15, 1999 while fighting militancy in Drass during Kargil conflict.
The Minister said the nation owes much to Army as it safeguards the nation from the enemies, while people sleep inside their homes. He said the country’s long borders encompassing different geographical and climatic conditions such as desert terrain on the west, snow-covered mountains in the north and thick rain fed mountainous jungles in the east, the Army has to constantly prepare itself for diverse challenges.
In addition, the Army is often required to assist the civil administration during internal security disturbances and in the maintenance of law and order, in organising relief operations during natural calamities like floods, earthquakes and cyclones and in the maintenance of essential services.
On the occasion, Army officers, jawans, prominent citizens, officers of different departments besides locals and family members of Maj Ajay Singh Jasrotia paid rich tributes to the valiant soldier.
Earlier, the Minister inspected the ongoing construction work of stadium at Bahu Fort, for which Government has earmarked Rs. 75 lakh.
Interacting with the locals, Mr. Bhalla said with the completion of playfield, the locals could celebrate their national festivals besides sports-cum-cultural activities at their doorstep place.
At Mohalla Masjid in Bahu Fort and Shastri Nagar, the Minister kick started upgradation work of dilapidated condition lanes and drains works including grating facilities. He also launched mecademisation project at Gorkha Nagar and Kalika Colony, for which Government has earmarked Rs. 42 lakh.
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