KATHUA, Jun 27: In a solemn and emotionally charged ceremony, BJP MLA from Jasrota Rajiv Jasrotia on Saturday unveiled the life-size statue of Martyr Harish Singh Jasrotia of the 18 Dogra Regiment at his native Village Jandore, honouring the brave soldier who laid down his life while defending the nation during Operation Rakshak at Leh on April 29, 2025.
The unveiling ceremony turned into a heartfelt tribute to the valour and patriotism of the martyr, drawing an impressive gathering of ex-servicemen, serving and retired Army officers, village elders, local youth, Panchayat representatives and residents from adjoining areas. The atmosphere echoed with patriotic slogans as floral tributes were offered to the statue, reflecting the deep respect and gratitude of the people towards the brave son of the soil.
Paying glowing tributes to Martyr Harish Singh Jasrotia, Rajiv Jasrotia said that the courage, commitment and supreme sacrifice of India’s soldiers are the strongest pillars of the nation’s security and sovereignty. He said the country enjoys peace and freedom because countless brave hearts stand guard along its borders under the most difficult and hostile conditions.
“The sacrifice made by Martyr Harish Singh Jasrotia can never be repaid. He dedicated the prime of his life to protecting the motherland and ultimately attained martyrdom while performing his sacred duty. Such heroes never die; they continue to live forever in the hearts of the nation and inspire generations with their extraordinary courage and patriotism,” the MLA said.
Rajiv Jasrotia remarked that memorials and statues of martyrs are not merely structures of stone but enduring symbols of sacrifice, national pride and inspiration. He said these monuments remind society, particularly the younger generation, of the priceless cost at which India’s freedom, unity and integrity are protected.
Expressing deep respect for the martyr’s family, the MLA lauded his parents, Jarnail Singh Jasrotia and Tripta Rani, for raising a son who chose the path of supreme service to the nation. He said every citizen owes a debt of gratitude to the families of martyrs, whose strength, resilience and sacrifices are no less significant than those of the soldiers themselves.
Calling upon the youth to draw inspiration from the martyr’s exemplary life, Rajiv Jasrotia urged them to embrace discipline, honesty, dedication and patriotism in every sphere of life. He said that serving the nation is not confined to the battlefield alone but can be accomplished through sincere contributions in education, social service, public life and nation-building.
He further said that the Dogra land has always been known for producing fearless warriors who have made unparalleled contributions to the defence of the country. The legacy of bravery and selfless service displayed by Dogra soldiers, he added, continues to strengthen the spirit of nationalism across the country.
The MLA assured the gathering that the memory of the brave martyr would always be preserved with dignity and honour, and that every possible effort would be made to ensure that future generations remain connected with the glorious legacy of India’s armed forces and their supreme sacrifices.
Among the distinguished guests present on the occasion were Major Abhimanyu Koshal, Lt Col Amrik Singh (Dogra Regiment) and Retd Captain Gian Singh Pathania, who also paid floral tributes to the martyr and appreciated the initiative to immortalise his sacrifice through the installation of the statue.
A large number of retired Army personnel, local youth and residents participated in the programme, reflecting the community’s deep emotional bond with the armed forces. Prominent among those present were Sarpanch Master Malwinder (Jandore), Sarpanch Sukhdev Singh, Sarpanch Shiv Dev, Sarpanch Bodh Raj (Syana), Ranjeet Pathania, Captain Sandeep, Lambardar Tarsem, Kaka, Ashwani, Dhrub Singh, Vansh, besides several other prominent citizens.
The ceremony concluded with the singing of the National Anthem and a collective pledge by those present to uphold the ideals of patriotism, national unity and selfless service exemplified by Martyr Harish Singh Jasrotia, ensuring that his sacrifice continues to inspire generations to come.