SUNDERBANI, APRIL 19: Minister for Food, Civil Supplies & Consumer Affairs, Transport, Youth Services & Sports, Satish Sharma, today paid glowing tributes to Vir Chakra awardee Martyr Subedar Parveen Singh at the unveiling of the Shaheedi Sthal and his statue in Village Devak, Tehsil Sunderbani.
The memorial was formally unveiled by Major General G.D. Bakshi, YSM, SM, Retd in a ceremony organized by the Kalidhar Ex-Servicemen Welfare Association (KEWA) to honour the supreme sacrifice of the valiant soldier during the historic 1947–48 Jammu and Kashmir operations.
Joining a large gathering of Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris, local citizens and dignitaries, Satish Sharma laid floral tributes at the Shaheedi Sthal and bowed in reverence to the martyr. The Minister underscored that the nation’s freedom and sovereignty are safeguarded by the unparalleled courage and sacrifices of its soldiers. “Subedar Parveen Singh’s life is a saga of courage, sacrifice and unwavering devotion to the motherland. Such heroes are the true pillars of our nation. Their legacy must not only be remembered but actively carried forward by the future generations,” he said. Highlighting the vital role of youth in nation-building, Satish Sharma stressed the need to connect the younger generations with the inspiring stories of India’s bravehearts.
He said that Shaheedi Sthals and memorials play a crucial role in nurturing patriotism, discipline and a sense of national responsibility among youth.
He further reiterated the government’s commitment towards promoting youth-centric initiatives, strengthening sports culture and expanding training programmes aimed at fostering leadership, resilience and national pride. Satish Sharma also acknowledged the immense contribution of the armed forces and ex-servicemen in safeguarding the nation’s integrity and mentoring society with a spirit of discipline and service. He appreciated the efforts of KEWA for organizing the event and for preserving the legacy of martyrs through such meaningful initiatives.
A wreath-laying ceremony was conducted as per the military traditions, with Maj Gen G.D. Bakshi laying the first wreath and unveiling the statue. This was followed by floral tributes by Satish Sharma, other dignitaries, Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and members of the public. A two-minute silence was observed to honour the supreme sacrifice of the martyr. The ceremony was also graced by Balk Yogeshwar Ji, along with senior members of KEWA, Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and a large number of citizens from Sunderbani and adjoining areas, reflecting deep respect and admiration for the braveheart. Recalling the extraordinary valour of Subedar Parveen Singh, it was highlighted that on 22 September 1948, in the Ladakh Sector opposite Nimu Hill, he led a daring fighting patrol against a heavily fortified enemy position. Displaying exceptional courage and leadership, he launched a bold attack on an enemy post far superior in strength and successfully led his men to capture the position. In recognition of his unparalleled bravery and supreme sacrifice, he was posthumously awarded the Vir Chakra, one of India’s highest wartime gallantry honours. Earlier in the day, a grand Jhanki procession carrying the statue of the martyr was taken out from Sunderbani Bazaar to Village Devak.
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