Udhampur, Nov 22 (KNO): Asserting that Bharat does not need to prove its strength to the world as the Indian Army itself is the symbol of the country’s power and ‘parakram, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Saturday said that soldiers are an embodiment of the country’s resolve and their courage has strengthened the nation’s confidence.
Addressing the closing ceremony of the mega eye camp 'Op Drishti' for veterans, veer naris and civilians, organised at Command Hospital Northern Command, here, LG Sinha, according to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO) said, “Army not only safeguards India’s sovereignty but has time and again proven its extraordinary capabilities through major operations.”
He said that the Indian Army has always stood as the nation’s first line of defence, serving its people with unmatched courage and responding whenever the country calls. “Besides safeguarding the sovereignty of our country, the Indian Army has proven its mettle through Operation Sindoor, Operation Mahadev and several other operations,” he said.
“I am proud of selfless service and supreme sacrifices by the Indian Army, the symbol of unity and national integration. The army has contributed in creating a conducive environment for sustainable peace and overall development of the J&K UT as well as the growth of our country,” he added.
Recalling the Army’s role during the recent floods in Jammu region, the LG said soldiers displayed exceptional bravery and dedication while saving countless lives. “In the most difficult circumstances, the Army delivers. Their discipline, spirit of sacrifice and commitment to duty inspire the entire nation,” he added.
The Lieutenant Governor praised the brave personnel of Indian Armed Forces for their unwavering courage and sacrifices to effectively address the security threats.
“Our great nation remains committed to the values of peaceful coexistence, mutual harmony, and friendship. Today, India does not need to prove its prowess. The nation's valiant Armed Forces stand as a powerful testament to its valour,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
He emphasised that the Armed Forces should continually adapt to and remain vigilant against the rapidly changing security environment.
He also cautioned that the neighbouring country continues to make attempts to disrupt peace in India, especially in Jammu & Kashmir. Referring to the recent breakthrough by J&K Police, the LG said, “The police recently busted a pan-India terror module that wanted to target innocent people across the country. This is a clear indication that our security forces are vigilant and determined to protect every citizen.”
“In such a situation, we must remain alert to protect the nation's honour, protect our borders, and preserve our unity and integrity,” he added.
The LG praised the synergy among the Army, J&K Police and other security agencies, asserting that their collective efforts remain crucial in maintaining peace and stability in the region.
The Lieutenant Governor commended the Northern Command, Armed Forces Medical Services, Army Hospital Research & Referral, Delhi and the professional medical team associated with the camp for setting the highest example of humanitarian ideals before the nation. He also lauded Brig. Dr. Sanjay Mishra, a renowned eye specialist at Army Hospital Research & Referral, Delhi for his selfless service to society.
“Leadership qualities are important for making a fearless soldier and dedicated officer, who leads from the front and lives by example. This camp is testament to such leadership who are inspiring the communities and building a healthy society,” the Lieutenant Governor said.
The Lieutenant Governor appealed to everyone to participate in eye donation and inspire others for the noble cause.
He said the camp significantly raises awareness about vision-related diseases and offers vital guidance on necessary eye care. Such camps in remote areas reach vulnerable population who are often unaware of their eye conditions or lack the necessary income and resources for treatment, bringing critical care directly to those in need, he added.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi also extended their felicitations, through video messages, to the Northern Command, Armed Forces Medical Services and everyone associated for their noble endeavour. An educational handbook on quality eye care was also released on the occasion.
The camp provided medical support to residents from the far-flung districts of Jammu and Kashmir, including Udhampur, Doda, Rajouri, Poonch, Kishtwar, and Ramban, with over 1,000 persons screened and more than 300 surgeries performed.
Sunil Sharma, Leader of Opposition (LoP) in J&K Legislative Assembly; Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, GOC-in-C, Northern Command; Surgeon Vice Admiral Aarti Sarin, Director General, Armed Forces Medical Services; Lt Gen CG Muralidharan, Director General, Medical Services (Army); Brig. Dr. Sanjay Mishra; Ms Saloni Rai, Deputy Commissioner Udhampur, senior officials, veterans, veer naris, and people from different walks of life were present—(KNO)