Yogi Adityanath inaugurates Armed Forces Festival in Lucknow

Lucknow: The highly anticipated three-day Armed Forces Festival unfolded today at Surya Khel Parisar in Lucknow Cantonment with great enthusiasm.

Inaugurating the festival, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath said that the Indian Armed Forces are unparalleled globally, and even India’s enemies acknowledge the strength, discipline, and technical prowess of its armed forces.

He said that Uttar Pradesh will continue to play a leading role in these national defence efforts and emphasised that the Defense Corridor also creates significant employment opportunities for the state’s youth.

An audience of more than 8000 people of all age groups and from all walks of life was treated to a breath-taking exhibition featuring a magnificent display of the latest military equipment, such as tanks, helicopters, artillery guns, etc., developed as part of Atmanirbhar Bharat, showcasing the might of technology-driven Indian Armed Forces. Notable exhibits included the T-90 tank.

“Indian armed forces show unparalleled strength and soldiers are our national heroes…the country is proud of their dedication. Even our enemies acknowledge their strength, discipline and technical prowess,” emphasised the CM.

He said the event was a glimpse of PM Narendra Modi’s vision of an integrated command, in which the three forces of land, air and water easily defeat the enemy and achieve victory through mutual coordination. The CM said the programme would also help in inspiring the younger generation to join the armed forces.

The CM also highlighted UP government’s initiatives for the welfare of soldiers and their families.

“Youth from the state have made significant contributions in every war fought for the security of the nation. The state government is Committed to the welfare of serving and retired soldiers and their families and also to the kin of fallen heroes. The UP government provides an ex-gratia payment of ₹50 lakh to the families of martyred soldiers, ensures employment for a family member in state government jobs, and honours them by naming institutions and establishing memorials in their name,” he said.

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