Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, originally slated to visit the Siachen area on Sunday to celebrate Holi with deployed armed forces personnel, had to cancel the trip due to adverse weather conditions. Instead, he arrived in Leh for the festivities, which are observed on March 24 and 25, and engaged in the celebration with the jawans by applying Gulal to them.
#WATCH | Defence Minister Rajnath Singh applies 'tika' on the foreheads of Armed Forces Personnel at Leh Military Station. He is celebrating #Holi with them here. pic.twitter.com/hxdoS81ObS
— ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2024
During the Holi celebration in Leh, Rajnath Singh took the opportunity to address the Army personnel, commending their bravery and dedication. He emphasised Ladakh's significance as a region synonymous with courage and national resolve.
#WATCH | Ladakh: After celebrating #Holi with armed forces at Leh Military Station, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addresses Army personnel.
— ANI (@ANI) March 24, 2024
He says, "...The land of Ladakh is not common. It is the land of Siachen, Kargil, Bharat Mata... Ladakh represents the national… pic.twitter.com/QLQL1vtAct
"Ladakh is not just any ordinary place; it stands as a testament to valour, from Siachen to Kargil, embodying the spirit of Bharat Mata. Just as Delhi is our political capital, Mumbai our economic hub, and Bengaluru our technological center, Ladakh epitomises bravery and prowess," Singh stated during his address.
Initially planning to visit Siachen, known as the world's highest battlefield, the Defence Minister had expressed his anticipation for celebrating Holi with the deployed Armed Forces personnel there. However, due to challenging weather conditions and the unpredictable nature of the glacier, the visit had to be called off.