CM reiterates Rs 50 lakh aid, job for kin of fallen soldiers

Lucknow: Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath on Thursday reiterated the Uttar Pradesh govt's commitment to soldiers by providing Rs 50 lakh compensation, a govt job for a family member, and memorials or road naming after martyrs during the foundation-laying ceremony for the beautification of the Gorkha War Memorial and a museum project at the Gorkha Recruitment Depot (GRD) in Gorakhpur.The ceremony, attended by Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, also witnessed the felicitation of war widows.The CM emphasised the importance of PM Narendra Modi's ‘Panchpran', the five pledges for a developed India, which include eliminating remnants of colonial servitude, cherishing heritage, respecting soldiers, fostering social unity, and fulfilling duties. Quoting poet Ramdhari Singh ‘Dinkar,' he celebrated the indomitable spirit of Gorkha soldiers, whose battle cry "Jai Mahakali, Jai Gorkhali" has historically forced enemies to retreat. He recalled the 1816 Anglo-Gorkha War, where British forces, awed by Gorkha bravery, signed a treaty and inducted them into their army. "This legacy of courage continued in independent India, with Gorkha soldiers proving their mettle in various conflicts, including the Kargil War, where Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey displayed exemplary valor," he said."The revamped war memorial and museum aim to immortalize this legacy, showcasing the regiment's history, uniforms, and weaponry to inspire future generations. The project also seeks to strengthen India-Nepal ties by celebrating their shared cultural and spiritual heritage," he said. Praising the contributions of Gorkha soldiers, Yogi noted that two of India's Chiefs of Defence Staff, General Bipin Rawat and General Anil Chauhan, hailed from the Gorkha Regiment. He further announced that the state govt has renamed Lucknow's Sainik School after Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey, the first military school in India, and has established another in Gorakhpur to instill pride in the armed forces among youth.Meanwhile, Union Minister Kamlesh Paswan lauded the project for inspiring future generations, while General Chauhan called it a historic initiative cementing the bond between the Gorkha Regiment and the Indian Army.