Western Command Chief Calls on Students to Embrace Discipline and Courage

Kasauli(The Uttam Hindu): Lieutenant General Mohit Wadhwa, Chief of Staff of the Western Command, encouraged students on Saturday to embrace discipline, courage, and a sense of purpose in their lives. Speaking to students, educators, authors, military veterans, and literary enthusiasts, General Wadhwa praised the successful two-day Military Literature Festival held at The Lawrence School in Sanawar. He explained that such festivals go beyond just storytelling or recounting wars; they embody the spirit of a nation and reflect the bravery of its soldiers.

“Sanawar has a proud legacy of producing leaders and patriots. Today, more than ever, our nation needs young minds who are not only academically strong but also guided by values, integrity, and a commitment to service,” he said. Drawing comparisons between military life and student life, General Wadhwa emphasized the importance of qualities such as perseverance, leadership, and resilience in both spheres. He urged students to rise above challenges, dream big, and work tirelessly toward their goals to realize the Prime Minister’s vision of a developed India by 2047.

The festival also featured a special book fair, showcasing a variety of literature focused on military themes. The fair included books written by veterans, war historians, and defense experts, providing deep insights into the lives and sacrifices of armed forces personnel. Additionally, war veteran Colonel Bobby Grewal delivered a compelling talk on the Battle of Basantar, one of the largest tank battles of the 1971 Indo-Pak war. His recounting of the bravery, strategy, and sacrifices of the soldiers, including many Sanawar alumni, captivated the audience, particularly the students, who gained valuable knowledge about India’s military history. The event also hosted the Basantar Memorial Inter-School English Declamation Contest and a Poetry Composition Contest, with top schools from across the country participating.