07-06-2026 : Address of the Hon’ble Governor on the Occasion of the ITBP Soldiers’ Conference Held at Munsyari.

Jai Hind!

Today, standing among all of you brave soldiers on the sacred land of Munsyari, a frontier region of the divine state of Uttarakhand, I feel deeply honored and proud.

This Devbhoomi (Land of the Gods) is not only a land of spirituality but also an eternal source of valor, austerity, sacrifice, and patriotism. The steadfast peaks of the Himalayas inspire us with the message of unwavering determination. This sacred land has given birth to countless brave sons who have dedicated everything to the defense of the motherland and have written golden chapters in history through their sacrifices.

Every village of Uttarakhand tells stories of bravery, and every family is connected to a proud tradition of patriotism and sacrifice. The contribution of the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) in carrying forward this glorious legacy is both significant and inspiring.

My brave comrades,

As a soldier myself, I have witnessed the challenges of the border firsthand, faced difficult conditions, and realized that a soldier’s life is not merely a profession but a solemn pledge of complete dedication to the nation.

The lives of our soldiers teach us that the organization is greater than the individual, the nation is greater than the organization, and nothing is greater than the nation. This spirit is the greatest strength of an Indian soldier.

When a soldier stands guard at the border, neither harsh weather, difficult terrain, nor personal comforts matter. There is only one resolve in his heart—that the nation remains secure, the honor of the motherland remains intact, and the Tricolor always flies high with pride.

Through this conference, I salute all of you brave Himalayan warriors. Crores of citizens of our country are able to pursue their dreams with peace of mind because our soldiers stand vigilant and steadfast on the borders.

My courageous Himalayan warriors,

Protecting the nation’s borders is not merely about safeguarding geographical boundaries; it is also about securing the country’s development, prosperity, and future. When borders are secure, lamps of knowledge are lit in schools, industries thrive, farmers work their fields without fear, and scientists focus on innovation. Therefore, the foundation of a developed India rests upon the sacrifice, valor, and constant vigilance of our soldiers.

The Indo-Tibetan Border Police has always carried out its duties with exceptional courage, discipline, and dedication. Whether it is border security, disaster relief, mountain rescue operations, or assistance to local communities, this force has demonstrated excellence in every situation.

I am particularly pleased that the 14th Battalion has set an exemplary example of national service and nation-building through daring rescue operations, outstanding long-range patrols, successful leadership of the Himadri Expedition, and initiatives such as the “Vibrant Village” program.

This battalion is not merely a guardian of the border but a living symbol of courage, discipline, and devotion to the nation. I extend my heartfelt congratulations to every officer and soldier for their outstanding work.

Friends,

Today’s New India is moving forward on the global stage with renewed confidence. The world looks toward India with hope, trust, and respect. Behind this rise lies the invaluable contribution of our scientists, farmers, youth, entrepreneurs, and hardworking citizens, as well as our strong armed forces.

Today, India’s armed forces are counted among the most capable, disciplined, and professional forces in the world. Our training, morale, combat readiness, and patriotism make us truly exceptional.

Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, several historic steps have been taken to strengthen the nation’s security capabilities. Self-reliance in the defense sector has gained unprecedented momentum. Modern weapon systems, advanced surveillance networks, cutting-edge technologies, indigenous defense production, and digital warfare capabilities are continuously taking India’s military strength to new heights.

Today, India is not merely an importer of defense equipment but is also emerging as a significant exporter of defense products. This is a powerful testament to the vision of an Atmanirbhar Bharat (Self-Reliant India).

Dear brave soldiers,

In the modern era, wars are not fought only on physical borders. Cybersecurity, information security, artificial intelligence, drone technology, and emerging technologies have become vital components of national security. The wars of the future will be won not only through weapons but also through superiority in technology, information, and innovation. I am fully confident that India’s armed forces and paramilitary forces are completely capable of meeting these challenges successfully.

I also extend my special salutations to the families of our soldiers. When a soldier is deployed on the border, his family also becomes a participant in the sacred duty of serving the nation. The patience of parents, the sacrifice of spouses, and the restraint of children are equally important in this great national endeavor. In truth, a soldier’s strength is further reinforced by the sacrifice and faith of his family.

My young brave friends,

You are not merely guardians of the border; you are also role models for future generations. Your discipline, courage, character, and patriotism represent the highest ideals for the youth of our nation.

Today, India is moving forward with the vision of a Developed India by 2047. In this great journey, your role is immensely important. Secure borders, strong armed forces, and unwavering devotion to the nation will pave the way toward realizing this dream.

I am confident that all officers and personnel of the ITBP will continue to carry forward this glorious chapter of service to Mother India through their indomitable courage, professional excellence, and unwavering patriotism.

In conclusion, I would like to say that a soldier’s life is not merely a duty but the highest form of devotion to the nation. Your uniform is not just a piece of clothing—it is a living symbol of the trust, honor, and security of 1.4 billion Indians.

As long as the Himalayas stand firm and our brave soldiers remain vigilant on their peaks, no challenge can threaten India’s sovereignty, honor, or unity.

On this occasion, I pay my deepest respects to all the known and unknown immortal heroes of Mother India who made the supreme sacrifice to preserve the nation’s pride, dignity, and glory.

Let us all reaffirm our commitment to building a secure, strong, self-reliant, and developed India by placing national interest above all else.

With this resolve and confidence, I conclude my address.

Vande Mataram! Victory to Mother India! Jai Hind!