In a solemn ceremony held on October 11, 2024, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh virtually inaugurated the Prerna Sthal memorial at Burdang in Sikkim. The memorial honors the 22 soldiers who tragically lost their lives during the Glacial Lake Outburst Flood at South Lhonak Lake in October 2023. Due to inclement weather in Gangtok, the inauguration was conducted virtually from Headquarters, Trishakti Corps in Sukna, West Bengal.
During his address, Shri Rajnath Singh paid tribute to the fallen soldiers and praised their courage and dedication in service to the nation. He emphasized that Prerna Sthal immortalizes the sacrifices of these bravehearts and stands as a powerful reminder of their bravery for generations to come. He noted that memorials like this serve as more than symbols of sacrifice; they awaken a deep sense of national pride among citizens.
"Every Indian possesses a sense of national pride, but it’s often dormant amidst personal life. Memorials like Prerna Sthal reignite this pride and serve as a bridge between the past and future, binding generations together," Shri Rajnath Singh said. He referenced the National War Memorial in New Delhi, which honors around 26,000 fallen heroes, as another example of this enduring legacy.
The Raksha Mantri expressed deep gratitude for the soldiers' supreme sacrifice, describing it as a debt that the nation can never fully repay. He saluted the courage of those who lay down their lives in the service of the motherland, highlighting their selfless dedication.
"This Prerna Sthal is a testament to the bravery of our soldiers. It symbolizes national security and reassures us that the country is in safe hands. The memorial will inspire future generations to remain dedicated and lead the nation to greater heights," he concluded.
The event, organized by the Trishakti Corps, was attended by dignitaries including Sikkim's Governor Shri Om Prakash Mathur, Chief Minister Prem Singh Tamang, Vice Chief of Army Staff Lt Gen NS Raja Subramani, and other senior officials. The families of the fallen soldiers were also present and were honored during the ceremony.
Prerna Sthal, a joint effort between the Governor of Sikkim and the Indian Army, is not just a memorial but also a symbol of resilience. The Indian Army has restored the surrounding area, which was devastated by the floods, transforming it into a scenic site that blends remembrance with recovery. This scenic memorial stands as a powerful reminder of the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to the nation.(pr)