SPEECH BY THE PRESIDENT OF INDIA, SMT. PRATIBHA DEVISINGH PATIL, AT THE SAINIK SAMMELAN

Tezpur, Assam, 21st October 2008

It is indeed a proud privilege to be amongst you all at Tezpur. You are the first amongst us, in India, who receive the earliest rays of dawn. I see much cheer on your faces and determination in your eyes, which convinces me that the nation is in safe hands. Your sacrifice and your bravery has protected us in the past and will continue to do so in the future - the nation is grateful to you for the invaluable sacrifices you have made.

4 Corps is the pride of our Army, from stalling the Japanese aggression in 1942, during World War-II to stoically holding on to the defences in the 1962 Sino-Indian conflict, to being in the fore front in 1971 Indo-Pak War, this region is witness to the exemplary courage of the soldiers of 4 Corps and the Indian defence forces. Many acts of supreme heroism have been performed by individuals, responding to the circumstances of the moment. There is no doubt, that the quality which is admired by all is the sustained grit and determination of our Armed Forces. The supreme sacrifice of Subedar Joginder Singh, PVC at Bumla, the battles of Thagla Ridge & Sela Massif in the Kameng sector and battles of Walong sector in 1962 operations are shining examples of exemplary human endurance in face of overwhelming odds, where sacrifices were made in the true traditions of the Indian Army. You as soldiers of Gajraj Corps are the custodians of that proud legacy !

I am proud to say that today we are far better prepared and equipped to face any challenge. I am happy to note that our Armed Forces have successfully absorbed emerging technologies and employed it to enhance their operational effectiveness. I am certain that you will rise to future challenges with your established alacrity, grit, diligence and high professionalism. The Indian Army is a symbol of unity and national integration - from whom the people of our nation draw strength.

In addition to ensuring the sanctity of our borders, you are also deployed for conduct of the counter terrorist operations, which is challenging. I understand that you all have achieved a fair degree of success in conduct of counter insurgency operations in Assam. Today, there is a groundswell for peace. Our security forces have helped in creating a conducive environment for the State Government to effectively deal with its security concerns. We need to see an irreversible return to normalcy for a more sustainable peace and overall development of the States, as well as the growth of our country.

Today as you stand safeguarding the territorial integrity of the nation, I can assure you that the nation is whole heartedly behind you in all aspects. The nation is aware of the difficulties faced by you and the Government is ameliorating your difficulties and improving the service conditions to give you the best.

I wish to conclude by saluting the soldiers who have made the supreme sacrifice in the service of the nation. I applaud you for the privations you go through to maintain the sanctity of the borders on these lofty mountains, in the most inhospitable and challenging environment, quietly and efficiently. I commend your families who bear the burden of the day to day life alone, and at the same time keep you inspired and motivated to enable you to do your duty.

As your Supreme Commander, I am proud to be the head of such a Family. My Dear Jawans, the country is proud of you. We repose trust in the Armed Forces and draw inspiration from your courage and sacrifice. Our prayers and good wishes are with you and your families. May God give you the courage and strength to rise to the challenges that lie ahead. I wish you all a Happy Deepawali.

Thank you,

Jai Hind.