Sukna, West Bengal: On the auspicious occasion of Dussehra, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh performed the traditional Shastra Pooja at the Sukna Military Station in West Bengal, a significant ceremony in the Indian Army that honors weapons as protectors of the nation’s sovereignty. The ceremony underscores the respect and reverence for military equipment, symbolizing the Armed Forces’ preparedness and dedication to safeguarding India’s territorial integrity.
The event began with the Kalash Pooja, followed by the Shastra Pooja and Vahan Pooja, rituals that are believed to bring blessings for strength, safety, and success. Shri Rajnath Singh offered prayers to a range of modern military equipment, including state-of-the-art infantry, artillery, communication systems, mobility platforms, and drone systems. The event concluded with an interaction between the Raksha Mantri and the troops stationed at the military base.
In his address, Rajnath Singh praised the vigilance and critical role of the Armed Forces in maintaining peace and stability along the country’s borders. He linked the spirit of Dussehra, which symbolizes the victory of good over evil, with the soldiers’ commitment to upholding human values and protecting the nation.
“India has never attacked any country out of hatred or contempt. We fight only when someone insults or tries to harm our integrity and sovereignty; when war is waged against religion, truth, and human values. This is what we have inherited. We will continue to preserve this heritage. However, if our interests are threatened, we will not hesitate to take a big step. Shastra Pooja is a clear indication that if need be, the weapons will be used with full force,” Rajnath Singh said.
The Shastra Pooja ceremony emphasizes the cultural and spiritual depth of Dussehra, highlighting the crucial role of military equipment in safeguarding the nation. It also showcases the blend of tradition and modernisation within the Indian Army, reinforcing the country’s commitment to preserving its sovereignty while advancing indigenous defence systems and platforms.
The ceremony was attended by Chief of the Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi, Defence Secretary-designate RK Singh, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Eastern Command Lt Gen Ram Chander Tiwari, DG Border Roads Lt Gen Raghu Srinivasan, General Officer Commanding, Trishakti Corps Lt Gen Zubin A Minwalla, and other senior officers.