Rajnath Singh Commends Soldiers in Srinagar, Inspects Shells Fired from Across LoC at Badami Bagh Cantonment

May 15, 2025 by News Desk

Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday visited the Badami Bagh Cantonment in Srinagar, where he met Army personnel and praised their unwavering courage amid heightened border tensions and recent militant violence.

Landing in the Valley just days after India and Pakistan agreed to de-escalate hostilities, Singh was received at the airport by Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi. His visit comes in the aftermath of the recent deadly attack in Pahalgam, which left at least 26 civilians dead.

Addressing the troops, Singh paid homage to those who lost their lives in service and expressed deep sorrow over the civilian casualties in Pahalgam. “I bow before the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives fighting militancy and honour the memory of innocent civilians killed. I also salute the wounded soldiers and pray for their speedy recovery,” he said.

He went on to hail the soldiers’ role in the recently concluded ‘Operation Sindoor’, praising their dedication and the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

“As a citizen first, I have come to thank you, not just as the Defence Minister but on behalf of the entire country. You have made the nation proud under extremely challenging circumstances,” Singh added.

During the visit, the Defence Minister also examined Pakistani-origin shells that were recovered following cross-border shelling in recent weeks. [KNT]