Freedom is the outcome of struggle and sacrifice of ancestors

Governor Shri Mangubhai Patel has said that freedom has come after the hard struggle, sacrifice and valour of our ancestors. Giving more and more respect to the freedom fighters is the least we can do. We should always be grateful to them because the happy life that we are leading today is due to the freedom fighters. It is the duty of every countryman to always work in the interest of the country.

Governor Shri Patel was addressing the Felicitation of Gallantry Awards to Ex-Servicemen and Serving Fraternity programme organised by Sudarshan Chakra Corps of Army at Panchjanya Auditorium Dronachal today.

Governor Shri Patel said that the aim of the Amrit Mahotsav of Azadi is to disseminate information about the sacrifices of the freedom heroes and the meaning of freedom, so that the life stories of those who have not been recognised in history also reaches the people. He said that is why the celebrations are being held especially at places like the Cellular Jail in Andaman and Jallianwala Bagh in Punjab, the pilgrimage sites of our independence. He said that we should take the inspiration of the elixir of energy of freedom from the freedom fighters, and resolve to build the nation with the basic qualities and ideas of our culture. Prime Minister Shri Modi has also said that the feelings of 130 crore people of the country should be involved in organising the Amrit Mahotsav. Therefore, those who are currently working for the country and society, all of them should connect with the organisation of Amrit Mahotsav. He asked to organise the festival as a public festival, with public participation. Along with these events of Amrit Mahotsav, he expressed happiness on the information that the army is celebrating 75 years of the independent Indian Army.

Governor Shri Patel said that there are many examples of patriotism, courage and valour of Indian soldiers. Even after independence, the war with China in 1962, the war with Pakistan in 1965 and 71, the Kargil War and more recently the disputes with China in the Galwan Valley, the three wings of the army have faced with courage and valour. Be it war or peace, our brave soldiers are always alert. Apart from war, they also face the natural calamities in the country with alacrity. He appreciated the cooperation of the Army in the relief and rescue operations of the recent floods in the northern part of the state. He told the retired military officers and soldiers that they should not consider themselves retired, the passion and fervour of the soldiers can never end. He also appealed to use indigenous products to build a self-reliant India.