Chief of Indian Army General Bipin Rawat today termed Jharkhand a land of heroes who have been serving the nation giving their blood. Addressing a gathering of Ex-servicemen at Chainpur Block in Gumla district on Friday, General Rawat praised the service of youth from Jharkhand and said that the soldiers of the State have made the country proud with their valour and perseverance.
General Rawat, who is the first Army Chief to reach the native place of Param Vir Albert Ekka, today attended the rally of Ex-Servicemen at Barve High School Ground in Chainpur about 130 kms from the Capital city. He, on the occasion, felicitated ex-servicemen and their families alongwith war widows for the highest military sacrifice in the service of the country and for service in the army.
The Army Chief on the occasion felicitated Balmdina Ekka, wife of Param Vir Chakra winner Late Lance Naik Albert Ekka, with a shawl and also handed over a cheque of Rs 51,000 to her.
While addressing the programme General Rawat thanked Balamdina Ekka and said that it was because of her he could reach the land of heroes.
While praising Albert Ekka's indomitable courage and military feat, the Army Chief narrated the story of Albert Ekka that in the year 1971, despite being wounded in Akhaura sector (Gangasagar), he destroyed the Pakistani bunker.
Appreciating the dedication of the soldiers, he also praised the patience of the families of the soldiers. He also encouraged retired Army personnel to guide the society, motivate youth to become inspiration. He also appealed to the youth of Gumla to join the army in good numbers and come forward to serve the country.
“This land gave birth to a courageous man, who earned a name across the country. The name of Chainpur of Gumla is also because of Lance Naik. Today this land is given the status of heroic land. This brave land is the pride of the whole country. I am convinced that the youngsters in this area will bravely do their duty. Will work harder and will continue to achieve success. We thank you for organizing this event,” said general rawat.
“I am proud that you will become an example in your area. Your discipline encourages the young men to see the action. Youth of this area enter the army in maximum numbers.
It is a good opportunity to show bravery. I am happy to see that you participated in the programme with discipline and made it successful,” he said.
Earlier, Brigadier BG Pathak of Army Welfare Board gave the welcome speech in the programme. General Rawat was given a guard of honour at the helipad at Albert Ekka College.
Then he laid a wreath on the statue of Paramvir Albert Ekka at Chainpur Bazar Tand. During the program, cheques were handed over to 18 brave women and three Divyand former soldiers.