Defence Minister Rajnath Singh today revealed a life-size statue of the late General Bipin Rawat, the nation’s first Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), at TonsBridge School in Dehradun. The ceremony was attended by Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami. During the event, Rajnath Singh honored General Rawat, describing him as a brave soldier and a remarkable individual who will continue to inspire future generations.
In his remarks, the Defence Minister recalled an incident where General Rawat was injured by a gunshot at a remote border post in Jammu and Kashmir. This experience motivated General Rawat to enhance the Indian Army’s operations near the Line of Control and Line of Actual Control during his tenure as Army Chief and later as CDS. Singh praised General Rawat as a true embodiment of the country’s military ethos, emphasizing the unwavering dedication of soldiers to the nation’s security, regardless of their origins.
Reflecting on General Rawat’s final moments, Rajnath Singh highlighted the concept of ‘Die with your boots on,’ emphasizing General Rawat’s commitment to duty until the very end. He lamented General Rawat’s passing as a profound loss to the nation, noting that even in his final moments, he remained devoted to serving the nation.
The Defence Minister underscored the significance of General Rawat’s appointment as the first CDS, hailing it as one of the most significant reforms in the country’s military history. He stated that the establishment of this position demonstrates the government’s commitment to strengthening the Armed Forces.
Singh emphasized the government’s duty to uphold the dignity of soldiers and recognize their contributions. He praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s leadership in honoring the bravery and sacrifices of Indian soldiers. The Defence Minister highlighted the government’s efforts to equip the Armed Forces with advanced weaponry while also establishing the National War Memorial in New Delhi to honor fallen soldiers.
Commending the decision to install the statue within the school premises, Rajnath Singh stated that it aims to educate children about the valor of the Armed Forces and instill patriotism and dedication in them. He emphasized the importance of statues in society and culture, noting that they serve as sources of inspiration for future generations. Rajnath Singh cited figures such as Mahatma Gandhi, former President APJ Abdul Kalam, and General Bipin Rawat as examples for children to learn from and contribute to nation-building.