Darjeeling, 14th February: West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose graced the Flag Hoisting Ceremony and Inauguration of the Flagmast at Batasia War Memorial in Darjeeling, paying a grand tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of Indian soldiers, especially the revered Gorkha soldiers.
The Batasia War Memorial, built in 1995, holds deep historical and emotional significance, standing as a tribute to Gorkha soldiers of the Indian Army who sacrificed their lives for the nation. It is located in a region that is home to nearly 15,000 veterans. The beautifully landscaped memorial features a central bronze statue of a soldier with the majestic Kanchenjunga range in the backdrop, symbolizing valor and remembrance.
The newly constructed 72-foot Flagmast at the memorial posed unique challenges due to the elevated terrain and heritage conservation needs, making its successful completion a significant achievement.
Lieutenant General Zubin A Minwalla, UYSM, AVSM, YSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Trishakti Corps, along with other distinguished military officials, veterans, Veer Naris, and state government dignitaries, attended the solemn ceremony.
The event began with a Wreath-Laying Ceremony, followed by the National Flag Hoisting and the playing of the National Anthem, evoking deep patriotic emotion. The Governor inaugurated the Flagmast and unveiled the Inaugural Stone, marking a memorable tribute to the nation’s defenders.
A felicitation ceremony for Veer Naris and Awardees also took place, acknowledging the immense sacrifices made by military families.