Sashakt Sena Samriddh Bharat Exhibition organised by Eastern Command at Ranchi, commenced with great enthusiasm on Friday at Morabadi Ground, Ranchi. The three-day event from 06 Sep to 08 Sep 2024 was inaugurated by Governor Santosh Kumar Gangwar in presence of Raksha Rajya Mantri, Sanjay Seth.

The inauguration ceremony was attended by thousands including students, NCC cadets and citizens from across the state of Jharkhand, reflecting their strong support for the Armed Forces. The Exhibition is aimed to strengthen the bond between the civil society and Armed Forces and to motivate the youth of the Nation.

Attendees of all ages were treated to an exhibition of state of the art military weapons and equipment, highlighting the prowess and strength of the Indian Armed Forces. The exhibition comprised new generation advanced weapons such as Sig Sauer and AK-203 Rifles, Negev Light Machine Guns, Infantry Mortars, Anti Tank Guided Missiles and Loiter Munition System. Long Range Artillery Guns, Bofors and Ultra Light Howitzer, Anti Aircraft Guns and Air Defence Radars were also on display.

Audience had the opportunity to see extremely capable modern military vehicles which included All-Terrain Vehicle, High Mobility Reconnaissance Vehicle, Specialist Mobility Vehicle and Rough Terrain Logistic Vehicle. Live demonstrations of combat free fall by Akashganga Team of the Air Force and various combat simulations by Infantry troops mesmerised the audience. A wide array of military drones with capabilities ranging from surveillance to logistics displayed indigenous technological prowess and self-reliance.

To give hands on experience of military activities and equipment, special enclosures were made which included surveillance room equipped with night vision devices and weapons training simulators. Opportunity was given to selected students to take Hot Air Balloon rides and witness static display of aircrafts. Display of adventure activities of Microlight Aircraft Flypast showering petals on the spectators and breathtaking stunts by Daredevils Army Motorcycle Team, enthralled them. Flypast by the Helicopters was followed by Indian Air Force Hawk Jets, which left the spectators awe inspired.

Military Bands added ceremonial flair with martial tunes as the audience enjoyed martial arts and cultural performances. The exhibition also included displays highlighting the rich heritage and history of the Eastern Command and Kargil War. Contributions of the Indian Armed Forces in the Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief operations as well as the United Nations Peace Missions were also exhibited. Dedicated stalls provided guidance and information to students to pursue career in the Armed Forces. Informative stalls were also established by Indian Air Force and Navy.

Addressing the audience, Governor Santosh Gangwar praised the Armed Forces for the selfless service and dedication to the nation. He described them as a beacon of courage and discipline, particularly for the youth.

Raksha Rajya Mantri Sanjay Seth expressed his gratitude to the Indian Armed Forces for their sacrifices made by our soldiers and their families.

Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, GOC-in-C, Eastern Command presented mementos to Governor and Raksha Rajya Mantri. Thereafter, they toured various exhibits acknowledging the remarkable efforts of Armed Forces in organising the Sashakt Sena Samriddh Bharat Exhibition at Ranchi, further strengthening the bond between the Indian Armed Forces and citizens of the country.