Rajasthan’s Brave Soldiers Honoured at Churu “Gaurav Sainani” Ceremony

Jaipur, March 2026: Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma said that the brave soldiers of Rajasthan have always played a leading role in serving the nation. He noted that in almost every village of the state there is at least one family member who has worn the uniform of the Indian Army.

He emphasized that soldiers never truly retire, as they continue to serve the nation and society throughout their lives. Their lives of sacrifice and dedication remain a source of inspiration for everyone.

The Chief Minister was addressing the “Gaurav Sainani Samman Ceremony” held at the District Sports Stadium in Churu. During the event, he announced that the stadium will be renamed after Lieutenant General Sagat Singh Rathore, who displayed extraordinary bravery during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1971.

Legacy of Brave Soldiers

Sharma said that the land of Churu and the Shekhawati region has always kept the spirit of patriotism alive. He praised legendary soldiers such as Piru Singh, Major Shaitan Singh, and Sagat Singh Rathore, who brought pride and honor to Rajasthan through their bravery.

Strong Response to Enemies

The Chief Minister stated that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, India is emerging as a major global power. He said the Indian Armed Forces have given strong responses to enemies through operations such as the 2016 Surgical Strikes, 2019 Balakot Air Strike, Operation Parakram, Operation Rakshak, and Operation Sindoor. He added that India is steadily becoming self-reliant in the defence sector.

Sacrifice of Martyrs and Their Families

Sharma also paid tribute to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the country. He said the dedication of war widows and families of martyrs is equally inspiring and that the state government remains committed to solving the problems faced by soldiers and their families. Efforts are being made to reach out directly to ex-servicemen and their families across the state.

Integrated Soldier Welfare Complexes

The Chief Minister announced that the state government is developing Integrated Soldier Welfare Complexes to provide multiple facilities for soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their dependents under one roof. These complexes will include District Soldier Welfare Offices, war memorials, soldier canteens, health centers, and community halls.

In the first phase, complexes worth ₹36 crore will be constructed in Jodhpur, Tonk, Shergarh, and Jhunjhunu. A Major Shaitan Singh Skill Development and Training Centre will also be set up in Jodhpur, while a War Museum will be established in Jhunjhunu.

Benefits for Ex-Servicemen

The Chief Minister said the state government is committed to providing facilities and services to soldiers and their families. War widows will receive 50% discounts at hotels and guest houses run by Rajasthan Tourism Development Corporation, while serving and retired soldiers will receive 25% discounts.

He also announced that the honorarium for ex-servicemen employed through the Rajasthan Ex-Servicemen Corporation has been increased by 20% over the past two years. Additionally, pensions for veterans of World War II have been raised from ₹10,000 to ₹15,000 per month.

Ex-Servicemen as the Second Line of Defence

Speaking at the event, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander of the Sapta Shakti Command, said that a soldier is never alone. The purpose of the ceremony is to strengthen bonds and responsibility among soldiers and society. He described ex-servicemen as the second line of defence for the nation.

During the event, Chief Minister Sharma honored several ex-servicemen and handed over job letters. He also visited an exhibition held at the venue.

The ceremony was attended by Churu MLA Harlal Saharan, former Leader of Opposition Rajendra Rathore, President of the Paralympic Committee of India Devendra Jhajharia, along with public representatives, senior military officers, ex-servicemen, war widows, and their families.