Times Samman Awards Ceremony in Lucknow Pays Tribute to India's Bravest Soldiers
The Surya Auditorium in Lucknow became a hallowed ground of honour on Friday as The Times of India organized the prestigious Times Samman Award ceremony. This significant event served as a profound tribute to the exceptional courage, ultimate sacrifice, and unwavering service rendered to the nation by India's military heroes.
Distinguished Gathering Celebrates Valour
The ceremony witnessed the presence of eminent dignitaries, including Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath. They were joined by senior defence officials, creating a solemn and respectful atmosphere to honour the nation's protectors.
A poignant moment of the programme was the felicitation of Param Vir Chakra, Mahavir Chakra, and Vir Chakra awardees. The ceremony extended its reverence to include the family members of those heroes who were honoured posthumously, ensuring their legacy of bravery was collectively acknowledged.
Gallantry Awardees Honoured for Historic Bravery
Among the distinguished soldiers recognized were legendary names that resonate with valour in India's military history. The attendees included:
- Subedar Major (Honorary Captain) Yogendra Singh Yadav
- Subedar (Honorary Captain) Karam Singh
- Company Quarter Master Havildar Abdul Hamid
- Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal
- Captain Manoj Kumar Pandey
- Captain Vikram Batra
- Major Hoshiar Singh Dahiya
- Commodore Arvind Singh
- Brigadier Mohammad Usman
Subedar Major Yogendra Singh Yadav, who attended the ceremony, was honoured for his extraordinary bravery during the critical assault on Tiger Hill. Despite sustaining severe injuries, his courageous actions proved decisive in capturing this strategic peak, inspiring his fellow soldiers to advance against formidable enemy odds.
Captain Vikram Batra was honoured posthumously for his exemplary leadership and supreme sacrifice while recapturing key enemy positions in the Kargil sector. His legendary call, "Yeh Dil Maange More!", continues to echo as a symbol of indomitable spirit.
Nation's Gratitude Expressed by Leaders
The ceremony was attended by numerous serving military personnel, their families, war veterans, war widows, and mothers of soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for the nation. This gathering represented the entire spectrum of military service and its profound personal costs.
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh delivered heartfelt praise to the awardees, emphasizing that they had upheld the highest traditions of the Indian armed forces. He stated that their unparalleled courage would continue to inspire future generations, serving as a permanent beacon of patriotism and duty.
Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath expressed that the nation, and Uttar Pradesh in particular, remains eternally indebted to its brave soldiers. He highlighted how their sacrifices form the bedrock of India's unity and security, protecting the sovereignty that citizens cherish daily.
The ceremony also saw the presence of Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief (GOC-in-C) of the Central Command, adding further military gravitas to the occasion. The Times Samman Awards successfully created a platform where the nation's gratitude could be formally and respectfully conveyed to those who defend it with their lives.
