Punjab Tourism and Cultural Affairs Minister Navjot Singh Sidhu on Friday announced the celebrations of Military Literature Festival to be held at the Lake Club, Chandigarh, from December 6 to 9.

At the same time, he praised the Chief Minister Capt Amarinder Singh for introducing such events in the State which is very well known for its rich military legacy.

Sidhu said that Punjab has a proud military tradition and is known as the ‘Shield of the Nation’ and has borne the brunt of wars.

“Apart from the interactive sessions on the military and warfare related subjects with the war veterans, the sessions pertaining to poetry and art fields would also be a part of the festival,” he said adding that it would be a perfect opportunity for the young minds to learn about their rich history, culture and legacy.

Apart from other important events planned for the Military Literature Festival, a mega social evening has been planned for December 6 in which renowned singer Gurdas Maan has been invited to perform.

He called for the sacrifices of the war heroes to be remembered and highlighted the fact that 74,000 Indian defence personnel sacrificed their lives during the first World War. On the occasion, two-minute silence was also observed in remembrance of the war heroes.

Earlier, Senior Advisor to Chief Minister Lt General TS Shergill elaborated the activities which have been planned for this year.

He informed that as part of the pre lit fest activities, the response to the archery competition held at Patiala and shotgun shooting championship and Army Polo match held at Patiala have received tremendous response.

He informed that this year, the  events like military theme photography competition, cyclothon, off roading show, nature trail run for women and children and bird-watching workshop have been added.

It is worth mentioning that the entry to the main event at the Lake Club between December 7 to 9 is free for the public. However, the participant will have to register and should carry the registration pass for entry to the venue.

Three venues have been finalized for the panel discussions in which great military writers, soldiers,   thinkers,   authors,   adventurers,   sportsmen,   poets,   artists,   journalists,   technocrats, documentary and film makers and military industrialists will come together to share their experiences and expertise with each other and the public.

This year, 24 panel discussions over a period of three days will be held in which wide variety of military, strategic and historic subjects shall be discussed.

The descendants of the Victoria Cross, George Cross winning soldiers would also be invited for the fest.