Defence Minister Rajnath Singh marked Armed Forces Veterans' Day in Kanpur, Uttar Pradesh, praising the nation's enduring gratitude for its soldiers. Singh acknowledged the universal affection citizens hold for the military, saluting ex-servicemen on behalf of the nation. Emphasizing Kanpur's military significance, Singh recounted its role in the 1857 freedom struggle and highlighted Lakshmi Sehgal's connection. The event aimed to scale up Veterans' Day celebrations, urging Chief Ministers/Lieutenant Governors to participate. The day, observed annually on January 14, commemorates Field Marshal KM Cariappa's formal retirement in 1953, celebrated since 2016.
