Dear Friends,
Today, we are observing the Armed Forces Flag Day. This is a nationwide observation. The purpose the Flag Day is to renew our solidarity with the service personnel; to salute the veterans and the brave, and to honour the valiant heroes who sacrificed their lives for us.
Service personnel are the true protectors of our land, sea and air frontiers, relentlessly doing their duty under the harshest of climates – the scorching heat and freezing cold, hunger and thirst. The Armed Forces Day reminds us of the debt we owe to the many gallant men and women of the three services – Army, Navy and Air Force – who laid down their lives in defence of the motherland.
We earnestly solicit the cooperation and support of every citizen. The purpose behind this observation is intended for the:-
(a) Rehabilitation of battle casualties.
(b) Resettlement and Welfare of Ex-Servicemen and their families in general,
(c) Welfare of serving personnel and families in particular.
I can proudly remember that three of our Hon’ble Chief Ministers and four of our ex-MLAs were in defence service, and contribution by Mizoram people to our country is remarkable, and I would like to pay respect to them.
In fact, all these important people worked hard for this beautiful State as well as our Motherland for protecting our sovereignty, integrity and honour. The contribution of the various military forces to the people of this country is multifarious.
As every year, this Flag Day too, a fund collection drive is being launched throughout Mizoram this week. It is my earnest appeal to all members of our society, the business men, government servants and every individual to contribute their mite and donate generously for the welfare of our service personnel, as also remember with reverence those who sacrificed their lives for the country and ensure their loved ones are well looked after.
May I conclude by reciting the famous inscription at Kohima War Cemetery. “When you go Home, tell them of Us and say, For your Tomorrow, We gave our Today.”
JAI HIND.
