Chamba (Subhash Mahajan)
A contingent of 36 ex-servicemen from Chamba district in Himachal Pradesh, led by the 85-year-old Parade Commander Honorary Captain Puran Singh Thapa, embarked on their journey to Shimla on Tuesday (January 21, 2025) morning to participate in the Republic Day Parade on January 26.
The group, filled with enthusiasm and patriotic fervour, departed from various locations across the district.
Speaking on the occasion, the vice-president of the District Soldiers’ Board, Honorary Captain Tilak Raj Diwan, expressed his excitement and pride.
He said that Chamba district had received the opportunity to participate in the Republic Day Parade after a gap of 12 years. “Our team is fully prepared to showcase our strength and bring glory to Chamba district during the parade,” he added.
The Deputy Director of the District Soldiers’ Board, Captain Anupam Parashar, has made arrangements for the travel and accommodation of the ex-servicemen. The travel expenses for the team are being borne by the Himachal Pradesh government, for which the participants have expressed their gratitude.
Before their departure, the ex-servicemen were asked by the media about their willingness to serve the nation again if given an opportunity. In response, the veterans raised slogans of “Bharat Mata Ki Jai” in unison and affirmed their unwavering commitment to the nation.
“If given a chance, we are ready to serve our country once again with the same dedication and spirit,” they declared.
