‘Martyrdom of soldiers should be highlighted’

KOZHIKODE: Governor R L Bhatia, on Thursday, stressed the need to highlight the martyrdom of soldiers, ‘so that the younger generation could draw inspiration from the brave deeds of those who died for the country’.

“The higher-ups in the armed forces should alert the media of the martyrdom days, and articles on these soldiers will inspire the younger generation,” he said while releasing the ‘first day cover’ of the 122 Infantry Battalion (TA) Madras, at a function held at the Government Guest House here on Thursday.

The Governor also lauded the ‘commendable job’ being done by the 122 Infantry Battalion (TA), the Kerala unit of the Territorial Army based in Kannur (Kannur Terriers), in safeguarding the nation along the Kashmir valley and in other areas.

Referring to the portrayal of kalaripayattu in the first day cover which has been brought out by the Army Postal Service to commemorate the golden jubilee year of the battalion, Bhatia said the martial art has its significance in the life of a soldier. “Kalaripayattu symbolises absolute confidence and courage which each and every soldier should possess,” he added.

Battalion commanding officer Colonel M Ramachandran presided over the function which was attended by additional director general (TA) major general P Rajagopal, Collector A Jayathilak and city police commissioner Balramkumar Upadhyay.