Rajnath Singh pays tribute to 1965 war heroes in commemorative event
New Delhi, September 19. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on September 19 paid rich tributes to the soldiers who fought and laid down their lives in the 1965 war against Pakistan, as the nation marked 60 years of the historic victory.
He was speaking at a commemorative event organised by the Indian Army at South Block, where veterans and families of the fallen heroes were honoured.
According to a statement issued by the Ministry of Defence, Rajnath Singh hailed the courage and patriotism displayed by Indian troops in key battles such as Asal Uttar, Chawinda and Phillora, recalling the supreme sacrifice of Param Vir Chakra awardee Company Quarter Master Havildar Abdul Hamid, who destroyed several enemy tanks before being killed in action at Asal Uttar.
“Our brave Abdul Hamid taught us that bravery is not about the size of the weapon, it is about the size of the heart,” he said.
The Minister underlined that India’s victory was not just the result of military might, but also of the political will and unity of the nation. He credited then Prime Minister Lal Bahadur Shastri for providing decisive leadership at a time of uncertainty.
“No war is fought only on the battlefield; victory in war is the result of the collective resolve of the entire nation,” Rajnath Singh noted.
Drawing a parallel with contemporary challenges, he cited Operation Sindoor as an example of India’s firm resolve against terrorism in the aftermath of the Pahalgam attack.
“It shook us, but didn’t break our morale. Operation Sindoor showed our enemies how strong we are. Victory is no longer an exception for us; it has become our habit,” he said.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of soldiers, veterans and families of martyrs, Singh said their dignity and well-being remain a “top priority.” He added that defence modernisation, better training, and upgraded equipment are central to ensuring that the armed forces are always prepared.
The event was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Western Command chief Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar, Delhi Area commander Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar, senior officers, decorated veterans, gallantry awardees, and relatives of 1965 war heroes.
In his welcome address, Lt Gen Katiyar outlined the Western Command’s pivotal role in the conflict, while a documentary showcased the valour of soldiers in battles at Asal Uttar, Akhnoor and Khem Karan. Veterans also shared personal accounts, with Lt Gen Satish K Nambiar (Retd) offering strategic reflections and Vir Chakra awardee Maj RS Bedi (Retd) recounting his battlefield experiences.
The ceremony stood as a solemn tribute to the sacrifices of 1965 and a reminder to future generations of the enduring values of courage, unity, and service before self.
