The Impressive TimesJammu and Kashmir, January14, 2025: Defence Minister Rajnath Singh reiterated on Tuesday that Jammu and Kashmir remains “incomplete” without Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (PoK) and cautioned Pakistan against allowing the region to serve as a hub for terrorism. Speaking at the 9th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day event in Akhnoor, Jammu and Kashmir, Singh stated, “Jammu and Kashmir is incomplete without PoK. PoK is a foreign territory for Pakistan, and its land is being misused for promoting terrorism. Terrorist training camps are being operated in PoK… Pakistan must dismantle them, or else face consequences.”
Reflecting on the history of cross-border terrorism, Singh recalled the 1965 India-Pakistan war, which saw significant action in Akhnoor. He noted that India successfully repelled the Pakistani military’s advances but lamented that the then-central government missed an opportunity to eliminate cross-border terrorism. “Cross-border terrorism could have been put to an end in 1965, but the government at the time failed to convert the tactical advantage gained in the war into a strategic one,” Singh remarked.
He further acknowledged the sacrifices made by India’s Muslim community in the fight against terrorism, noting, “More than 80% of terrorists entering India are from Pakistan.” The Defence Minister underscored the government’s commitment to bridging the gap between Jammu and Kashmir and the rest of the country. “One of our government’s top priorities is to close the divide between Kashmir and the rest of India. The steps being taken by Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah are crucial in this regard,” he added.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, who also attended the event, praised the veterans for their sacrifices. “You gave everything for the country’s security without thinking of your future or lives,” he said. “It is now our duty to serve you and ensure that you receive the benefits you deserve.”
Abdullah assured the veterans that their needs would be addressed, including fully utilizing reservation quotas in recruitment and providing financial support under various schemes. He also highlighted that his Cabinet included the son of a retired soldier, Satish Sharma, who is working to serve the veteran community.
Armed Forces Veterans’ Day is celebrated annually on January 14 to honor the service of the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, Field Marshal KM Cariappa, who retired on this day in 1953.
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