Punjab Chief Minister Captain Amarinder Singh on Saturday brought the curtains down on India’s first Military Literature Festival with the hope that it would be instrumental in motivating the youth to join the Army in the interest of their nation’s security.Delivering the valedictory address at the conclusion of the Festival, Captain Amarinder said though he was personally in favour of holding a historical literature festival, Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore wanted a Military Literature Festival in Chandigarh to create awareness among the people about the rich legacy of the Armed Forces, and rekindle among youth the motivating spirit for joining the Army.Referring to the role of Punjabis in the Indian freedom, Captain Amarinder said being a part of the defence forces was a matter of pride and every youngster should be imbued with the spirit to join the forces.
The Chief Minister highlighted the contribution of the Armed Forces in safeguarding the country’s unity, integrity and sovereignty. Noting that as a student of history he was always passionate to relive the major episodes relating to the role of Punjabis through such a conclave, Captain Amarinder promised that the Festival would be scaled up in the coming years to reach out more effectively to more people and help imbibe a sense of patriotism and nationalism amongst the people in general and youngsters in particular.
The Chief Minister thanked his senior advisor Lt. Gen (Retd.) TS Shergill for his immaculate planning in organising this mega festival successfully. Captain Amarinder also profusely thanked eminent journalist Vir Sanghvi for moderating various sessions, which spoke volumes for his commitment and passion for military writings. On the occasion, the Chief Minister gave away appreciation certificates to the volunteers of various schools, including Sacred Heart, St. John, Manav Mangal Smart School and Shemrock Senior Secondary School, besides the cadets of Maharaja Ranjit Singh Armed Forces Preparatory Academy Mohali, Mai Bhago Armed Forces Preparatory Academy, NCC cadets from ITI Chandigarh, NCC Cadets of Government High School, Darua and Guru Nanak Public School sector 20 and Yadvindra Public School Mohali. Speaking at the event, Punjab Finance Minister Manpreet Singh Badal recited few couplets of renowned Urdu poet Mohammad Iqbal to eulogise the indomitable spirit of brave soldiers of Indian Armed Forces.