Poonam Nath

Sikkim: In honor of fallen soldiers, a 72-foot flag mast unveiled at Batasia War Memorial

Digital Desk: A major flag-raising ceremony was held today at the Batasia War Memorial in Darjeeling to launch a 72-foot flag pole honoring the courage and sacrifices of Indian soldiers, notably the revered Gorkha heroes.

The celebration, organized by the Zila Sainik Board of Darjeeling with cooperation from the Indian Army, represented the nation's eternal thanks to its soldiers.

Present at the ceremony as the chief guest were West Bengal Governor C.V. Ananda Bose, along with Lieutenant General Zubin A. Minwalla, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Trishakti Corps, military authorities, veterans, Veer Naris (war widows), and state government dignitaries.

The installation of the flag mast and the unveiling of the inaugural stone were significant tributes to India's soldiers' valor and sacrifice.

Speaking about the Batasia War Memorial, built in 1995, it honors Gorkha troops of the Indian Army who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Surrounded by a planted circular garden and a bronze soldier's statue, it stands as a symbol of valor against the backdrop of the Darjeeling hills and the Kanchenjunga range.

The occasion also included a felicitation ceremony for Veer Naris and honorees, which recognized the sacrifices of military families.