Chandigarh, September 23 — Haryana’s Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister Shyam Singh Rana said the state has always been a land of the brave, where soldiers and martyrs have led the way in serving the nation, whether during the 1857 uprising, the Kargil War, or in facing internal challenges.
He was speaking as the chief guest at a Shaheedi Diwas programme in Yamunanagar, where he paid floral tributes to Amar Shaheed Rao Tula Ram and planted saplings in memory of martyrs. Rana said the armed forces and paramilitary personnel not only defend borders but also protect citizens during disasters, terror attacks, and crises. Their sacrifice, discipline, and dedication, he added, inspire the entire nation.
“Today is not just a day of homage, but also of resolve — to ensure that the sacrifices of our brave soldiers are never in vain. We remain committed to honoring their families, supporting their rehabilitation, and ensuring their security and welfare,” Rana said.
Highlighting government initiatives, he said that since 2014, a total of 418 dependents of martyred personnel have been given jobs on compassionate grounds. The ex-gratia amount for armed forces and paramilitary personnel martyred in war has been raised from ₹50 lakh to ₹1 crore. Haryana is also the first state to grant cash awards to Agniveers who receive gallantry and distinguished service medals, at par with regular armed forces personnel. The state has fixed the ex-gratia amount for Agniveers at ₹1 crore in case of martyrdom during war.
Paying tribute to Rao Tula Ram, Rana said his leadership in the 1857 revolt against British rule makes him a hero of Haryana, and his valor remains a symbol of sacrifice and patriotism.
The programme saw participation from soldiers and paramilitary personnel from seven districts — Panchkula, Yamunanagar, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal, Karnal, and Panipat. On the occasion, the minister also announced a grant of ₹5 lakh to DAV Girls College for organizing the event.
