New Delhi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Wednesday paid homage to India’s veterans on the 10th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day, stating that the nation salutes soldiers serving across the world and honours those who laid down their lives in the line of duty.

Speaking at the commemorative event held at the Manekshaw Centre in the national capital, Singh described veterans as embodiments of national pride and a source of inspiration for generations to come.

Marking the occasion, he said the country bows in gratitude to veterans residing in India and abroad, while also remembering the martyrs who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. Singh noted that celebrating Makar Sankranti with the veteran community made the day especially meaningful for him.

Calling military service a lifelong commitment rather than a mere profession, the Defence Minister said soldiers place the nation above personal interests, a sacrifice beyond words. He emphasised that even after retirement, veterans continue to serve the country through their values, discipline, and contribution to nation-building.

Reflecting on his career, Singh said his tenure as Defence Minister has been the most fulfilling role he has held, surpassing his earlier responsibilities as Chief Minister and Union Minister. He said addressing the challenges faced by soldiers has been both an honour and a privilege.

Highlighting the resilience instilled through military service, Singh said harsh terrains such as Siachen and the deserts of Rajasthan shape a soldier’s character. “A soldier never truly retires,” he remarked, adding that while uniforms may change, the spirit of service remains constant.

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Armed Forces Veterans’ Day is observed annually on January 14 to mark the birth anniversary of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, India’s first Commander-in-Chief of the Army, who retired on this day in 1953. A key figure in Indian military history, Cariappa led the Army during the 1947 war and laid the foundations of professionalism, discipline, and patriotism in the armed forces, according to the Ministry of Defence.