Minister for PHE, Irrigation and Flood Control Sham Lal Choudhary today urged the youth to take inspiration from those who have laid down their lives for safeguarding the borders and showed tremendous courage in the line of duty.The Minister was addressing the gathering during Vijay Diwas celebrations organized by Poorva Sainik Sewa Parishad (PSSP), J&K State to commemorate the glorious victory of Indian Armed Forces over Pakistan in December, 1971 war .The PSSP is a premier organization of ex-servicemen of the state that organizes this function every year to celebrate Vijay Diwas and to honour the martyrs of the state who laid down their lives in different parts of the country while performing their duties. Highlighting the role of ex-servicemen towards the society, the Minister appreciated their efforts and said that they can play a vital role in welfare of the society as they possess great expertise and experience that they have attained during their service.Saluting the martyrs, the Minister said that their martyrdom would be remembered forever and expressed solidarity with the family members of the martyrs.The Minister honoured the family members of the martyrs including Sohan Lal Bhagat, Head Constable Krishan Chand and Constable Zaheer Abbas. It is worthwhile to mention here that this year 41 soldiers of the State serving in Army, CRPF and JK Police attained martyrdom while serving in the state and different parts of the country.
Brig (Retd) Suchet Singh, President PSSP, Brig ( Retd) B S Sambyal, Col. (Retd) Januja and Vijay Kumar also spoke on the occasion and highlighted the role of PSSP . The family members of the martyrs and a large number of Ex-servicemen from across the state were present on the occasion.Listening the people’s problems at Sainik Colony, the Minister assured that regular supply of water would be ensured in the area. He directed the concerned for displaying the time of supply of water with area at every water supply scheme and tube well of the area. Necessary replacement of pipes would be made to ensure smooth supply of water in the area, he maintained.Earlier, the Minister attended 21st State ITF Taekwondo Championship organized by the All J&K Taekwondo Association.Elucidating the importance of sports activities in life, the Minister said it help in making the physique strong and inculcate sense of discipline and develops team spirit.The Minister called upon the students to actively take part in sports activities and said the government is giving focused attention to promote the sports culture in the state. He said that various initiatives have been taken for creation of sports infrastructure in the state.