14-01-2026 : Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the occasion of “An Evening Dedicated to the Soldiers” Ceremony

Address by the Hon’ble Governor on the occasion of “An Evening Dedicated to the Soldiers” Ceremony

(Date: January 14, 2026)

Jai Hind!

On this auspicious occasion, I extend my heartfelt welcome, from the depths of my heart, at Lok Bhavan to all you patriots—our valiant soldiers, respected veterans, their proud families, and all distinguished guests present here today.

Today’s occasion is a confluence of emotions; it is a celebration of gratitude. Today we are observing Veterans Day, and tomorrow the entire nation will bow in reverence to the glory of Army Day. These two days remind us that the security of our borders, our freedom, and our peaceful way of life have been secured at the cost of our soldiers’ sacrifices—their sweat, their toil, and even their lives.

The progress of a nation is possible only when the nation is secure. This security is not ensured by walls, but by the sense of duty, discipline, and indomitable courage of our soldiers. Military service is not an ordinary profession; it is a sacred vow. It is a form of penance. It is a way of life in which one rises above personal comfort, desires, and self-interest, and adopts “Nation First” as the supreme duty.

The life of a soldier teaches us that there is dignity in discipline, pride in duty, and immortality in sacrifice. That is why soldiers, not only during their years of service but even after retirement, continue to guide society through their conduct, their thoughts, and their actions. Honouring soldiers and veterans is not a mere formality; it is our moral responsibility, our social sensitivity, and our constitutional duty.

The values on which our Constitution is founded—duty, discipline, sacrifice, and devotion to the nation—are translated into reality by our soldiers. Therefore, it is the responsibility of the State to stand firmly with soldiers and their families in every circumstance, with respect, empathy, and unwavering support.

It is with this spirit that the programme “An Evening Dedicated to the Soldiers” has been conceived at Lok Bhavan. This is not merely a felicitation ceremony; it is an expression of gratitude that goes beyond words and emerges from the heart. The resonance of such programmes, organised in the Garhwal and Kumaon regions, is now being heard across the entire country. These initiatives have further strengthened the bond of trust, respect, and emotional connect between the soldier community and the State.

I firmly believe that for the brave men who sacrifice their youth to secure our future, not just one evening, but every evening should be dedicated to soldiers. It is the soldier who stands as our shield on icy peaks at sub-zero temperatures and in scorching deserts. Therefore, our every breath and every thought should carry the highest respect for our soldiers, because without their sacrifice, discussions of our freedom and development remain incomplete.

The sacred land of Uttarakhand is not only Devbhoomi—the land of the gods—but also a great military land. Every particle of this soil is imbued with the echoes of heroic tales and sacrifices. This land has given countless warriors to the nation, who have defended India’s borders with the blood flowing in their veins. From the First World War to the victory in Kargil, and up to today’s modern defence systems, the brave soldiers of Uttarakhand have always kept the flag of valour flying high.

This heroic land, which has been the karmabhoomi of illustrious military units like the Garhwal Rifles and the Kumaon Regiment, has a history of unparalleled sacrifice. Here, every second household prepares a dedicated soldier for the defence of the nation. From the courage of Teelu Rauteli to the bravery of Baba Jaswant Singh Rawat, the glorious legends of this land inspire us to lay down our lives for our sovereignty. This motherland of heroes teaches us that there is no greater duty than service to the nation.

My dear family members,

Today we have gathered here to salute those steel-willed warriors who have been decorated with gallantry awards by the Government of India for their indomitable courage. This honour is not merely a symbol of an individual’s bravery; it is an honour bestowed upon that great mother who dedicated her very heart to the nation, upon that family which made sacrifice its way of life, and upon that valiant soil which gave birth to such immortal heroes.

Today is also an occasion to honour those veterans who, even after retirement, have made exceptional contributions to the social and administrative development of Uttarakhand through their experience, discipline, and leadership. Their continued dedication after retirement proves that a soldier’s service never truly ends; it merely takes on a new form and continues in the work of nation-building.

The august presence of so many decorated warriors on this platform today is not only a matter of pride for all of us, but also a living source of inspiration and unbreakable inner strength. This magnificent sight is a direct testimony to the fact that the honour of a soldier is not limited to his uniform; it becomes an indelible identity that accompanies him throughout his life. It is the result of their unwavering loyalty to the nation that society today bows in reverence before their valour.

The Uttarakhand Soldiers’ Welfare and Rehabilitation Organisation is working with complete sensitivity for the welfare of our veterans and their families. Our resolve is that after laying down the uniform, the challenges of life are addressed in a dignified, timely, and humane manner. With this objective, several schemes—from education to health and livelihood—have been implemented on the ground. Scholarships, incentives in military schools, rehabilitation of disabled heroes, and financial assistance for the marriage of widows of veterans and orphaned daughters all demonstrate that the State Government stands firmly with its sentinels in every joy and sorrow.

Demonstrating its respect towards the dependents of martyred soldiers, the State Government has increased the ex-gratia grant amount fivefold. In addition, a special assistance of ₹10 lakh is being provided to the families of martyrs through the Soldiers’ Welfare Organisation. This reflects our sensitive outlook and our highest gratitude towards the heroes of the nation. The value of a soldier’s service can never truly be repaid, but ensuring the dignity and security of their families is our sacred duty.

The secure environment required to realise the dream of Developed India @2047 is possible only because of these brave warriors. Let us today take a pledge that we will not limit our respect for soldiers and their families to special occasions alone, but will make it an integral part of our daily values and conduct.

It is a moment of pride for heroic Uttarakhand that our Soldiers’ Welfare Department has been honoured as a “Progressive State” at the national level. This recognition, received at the National Conclave 2025 organised by the Ministry of Defence, is a nationwide acknowledgment of our innovative efforts and effective policies for the rehabilitation of veterans and their dependents. I am fully confident that Uttarakhand will continue to be a guiding force for the nation in the field of military service and welfare.

The experience gained by our soldiers through indomitable courage and strict discipline in inhospitable borders and challenging conditions is unparalleled. Even after retiring from the armed forces, your role does not end; rather, a new chapter begins. I call upon all veterans to use this disciplined strength to wage a decisive battle against social evils such as drug abuse and corruption. Only with your active participation can we build a healthy and transparent society.

In nation-building as well, the discipline and unwavering patriotism of our military strength are our greatest assets. I urge you to dedicate your energy and capability to rural development, so that our villages may reach new heights of self-reliance. Through your contributions, Uttarakhand will carve out a distinct identity as a strong, developed, and prosperous state.

In conclusion, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Hon’ble Chief Minister, all distinguished guests, and most importantly, to our true pride—the brave soldiers and their families. Your gracious presence has infused this event with renewed energy and the spirit of patriotism, giving it a meaningful purpose. Together, through our respective expertise and collective efforts, we will take Uttarakhand to new heights of development and realise the great goal of Developed India @2047.

With this hope, expectation, and faith, I conclude my address.

Jai Uttarakhand!
Jai Hind!