CM Vishnu Deo Sai Honors Martyrs’ Families on Armed Forces Veterans Day

Raipur, January 15, 2025 – On the occasion of the 9th Armed Forces Veterans Day, Chief Minister Shri Vishnu Deo Sai paid tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of the country's soldiers in Pagurabahar village, Jashpur district.
During the event, the Chief Minister honored 81-year-old Shri Arun Kumar from Bhagalpur, who was awarded the Sena Medal by the President for his valor in the 1971 India-Pakistan war.
CM Sai presented him with a shawl, coconut, and a certificate of appreciation, acknowledging his undying courage. Arun Kumar shared his war experiences, reminiscing about the proud moments of serving the nation.
The Chief Minister also honored the families of three martyrs from the district. The families of Martyr Soldier Shimon Kerketta, Martyr Rajesh Bara, and Martyr Ashok Ram Bhagat were recognized for their sacrifice. CM Sai met with the families, listened to their concerns, and assured them of full support.
He also provided a wheelchair to Teresa Kerketta, the wife of Martyr Havildar Shimon Kerketta, who faces difficulty in walking. Remembering the brave contributions of the martyrs, CM Sai highlighted the sacrifice of Shimon Kerketta, who gave his life in 1966 while fighting the enemy in Mizoram, Rajesh Bara, who laid down his life in Jammu and Kashmir in 2002 fighting terrorists, and Ashok Ram Bhagat, who died during Operation Snow Leopard in Sikkim in 2020.
The CM emphasized that the sacrifices of these brave hearts would never be forgotten. The Chief Minister also paid tribute to the contributions of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, and reminded everyone that Armed Forces Veterans Day is a time to express gratitude to the soldiers and their families.
The day serves as a reminder of the struggles and sacrifices made for peace and freedom. The event was attended by MLA Smt. Gomati Sai, along with officers and members of the District Ex-Servicemen Welfare Committee.