Rajnath inaugurates Indian War memorial in Seoul

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday highlighted the “enduring legacy” of India’s contribution to peace and humanitarian assistance for the Korean Peninsula.

Singh, currently on a visit to Seoul, spoke about shared history of the two nations after inaugurating an Indian War memorial at Imjingak Park along with South Korea’s Minister of Patriots and Veterans Affairs, Kwon Oh-eul. Constructed as part of the commemorative events marking the 75th anniversary of the Korean War, the memorial stands as a tribute to the courage, sacrifice and humanitarian service rendered by the 60 Para Field Ambulance of the Indian Army and the Custodian Force of India (CFI) during the war.

The two ministers laid a wreath at the memorial and paid homage to the brave Indian personnel whose service continued to be remembered with deep respect and gratitude by the people of the Republic of Korea, according to the defence ministry.

In his remarks, Singh highlighted the enduring legacy of India’s contribution to peace and humanitarian assistance on the Korean Peninsula, it said. He noted that the shared history and sacrifices of the two nations continue to serve as a strong foundation for the India-Republic of Korea Special Strategic Partnership.

The defence minister added that commemorating the role of Indian troops helps strengthen people-to-people understanding and brings renewed attention to the historic bonds between the two countries.

The minister of patriots and veterans affairs expressed deep appreciation for India’s role during the Korean war and acknowledged the lasting bonds of friendship forged through the sacrifices and humanitarian service of Indian troops. An MoU was signed by the two ministers aimed at cooperation for honouring the veterans of the Korean war and strengthening exchanges between them. A memoir was also released in remembrance of the selfless sacrifice of the soldiers.

The 60 Para Field Ambulance, commanded by Lt Col (Dr) AG Rangaraj, earned widespread recognition for its exemplary medical service and dedication in treating thousands of wounded soldiers and civilians under extremely challenging conditions, the ministry said in a statement.

Their unmatched bravery and humanitarian approach earned them the title of ‘Maroon Angels’, given to them by the wounded soldiers and civilian population of South Korea, it said.

India also played a pivotal role in the post-armistice phase of the Korean War through CFI, which was entrusted with the responsibilities under the Neutral Nations Repatriation Commission (NNRC).

The NNRC, chaired by India under the leadership of Lt Gen KS Thimayya, was established to facilitate the humane repatriation and custody of prisoners of war following the signing of the Korean Armistice Agreement in 1953, according to the ministry.

The CFI carried out this sensitive and complex responsibility with professionalism, impartiality and compassion, earning international recognition for its contribution to peace, reconciliation and humanitarian principles on the Korean Peninsula, it said.

Lt Gen Thimayya’s distinguished leadership and diplomatic acumen remain an enduring symbol of India’s constructive and peace-oriented role during the Korean War. The defence ministry added.

The war memorial has been constructed in the same area where the CFI had established the ‘Hind Nagar’ in September 1954, housing almost 22,000 prisoners of war till their peaceful repatriation.