Punjab Governor Gulab Chand Kataria  Inaugurates 8th essay of military literature festival.

Military literature the most potent weapon to attract youth towards defence services.-Gov

CHANDIGARH: Terming the medium of literature as the most potent weapon to inspire youngsters towards defence services, the Punjab Governor and UT Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria on Saturday said that valour exhibited by sons and daughters of Punjab in different wars was a perennial source of motivation for the entire nation.

The Governor was speaking here after inaugurating the 8th edition of the Military Literature Festival (MLF) being organised at the Lake Sports Complex. The two-day event beginning today is being held here to offer youngsters a peep into the army life and to nurture future defence leaders.

"The festival not only celebrates India’s glorious military heritage but also underscores the role of military literature in enhancing knowledge and fostering patriotism among citizens, the Governor said.

Highlighting the increasing participation of women in the armed forces, the Governor  said it marked a progressive step towards gender equality and inclusivity in our forces. The Governor commended the efforts of the Festival organisers to encourage and prepare young boys and girls to join the military, contributing significantly to national security and defense.

India’s strides toward self-reliance in defense under the vision of Aatma Nirbhar Bharat were another focal point of the Governor’s address. He proudly noted that India is not only manufacturing state-of-the-art weapons and military equipment but is also emerging as a key exporter of defense technology to other nations. This, he said, reflects India’s growing stature as a global power in military innovation.

The Governor recalled India’s historic achievement under the leadership of Dr. A.P.J. Abdul Kalam during the Pokhran nuclear tests. “Pokhran was a turning point that showcased to the world India’s capability and resolve. It was a moment of national pride that established our nation as a formidable nuclear power,” he remarked, urging the youth to draw inspiration from such milestones in India’s military history.

The festival’s theme, “Wars Under the Nuclear Umbrella,” aligns with discussions on contemporary global challenges and India’s preparedness for future conflicts.