Jammu, Apr 19 (PTI) Jammu and Kashmir Sports Minister Satish Sharma on Sunday paid glowing tributes to Subedar Parveen Singh, a Vir Chakra awardee, at the unveiling of Shaheedi Sthal and his statue in the Sunderbani area of Rajouri district.
The memorial was formally unveiled at the Devak village by Major General (Retd) G D Bakshi, in a ceremony organised by the Kalidhar Ex-Servicemen Welfare Association (KEWA) to honour the supreme sacrifice of the valiant soldier during the historic 1947-48 Jammu and Kashmir operations.
Joining a large gathering of ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, local citizens and dignitaries, Sharma laid flowers at the Shaheedi Sthal to the fallen soldier, an official said.
Speaking on the occasion, the minister underscored that the nation's freedom and sovereignty are safeguarded by the unparalleled courage and sacrifices of its soldiers.
"Subedar Parveen Singh's life is a saga of courage, sacrifice and unwavering devotion to the motherland. Such heroes are the true pillars of our nation. Their legacy must not only be remembered but actively carried forward by the future generations," Sharma said.
Highlighting the vital role of youth in nation-building, he stressed the need to connect the younger generations with the inspiring stories of India's bravehearts.
He said Shaheedi Sthals and memorials play a crucial role in nurturing patriotism, discipline and a sense of national responsibility among youth.
He reiterated the government's commitment towards promoting youth-centric initiatives, strengthening sports culture and expanding training programmes aimed at fostering leadership, resilience and national pride.
Sharma also acknowledged the immense contribution of the armed forces and ex-servicemen in safeguarding the nation's integrity and mentoring society with a spirit of discipline and service.
He further appreciated the efforts of KEWA for organising the event and for preserving the legacy of martyrs through such meaningful initiatives.
A wreath-laying ceremony was conducted as per the military traditions, with Bakshi laying the first wreath and unveiling the statue.
A two-minute silence was observed to honour the sacrifice of the slain soldier.
Recalling the extraordinary valour of the Subedar, it was highlighted that on September 22, 1948, in the Ladakh Sector opposite Nimu Hill, he led a daring fighting patrol against a heavily fortified enemy position.
Displaying exceptional courage and leadership, he launched a bold attack on an enemy post far superior in strength and successfully led his men to capture the position.
In recognition of his unparalleled bravery and supreme sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra, one of India's highest wartime gallantry honours, KEWA said.
Earlier in the day, a grand procession carrying the statue of the soldier was taken out from Sunderbani market to the Devak village.