Chief Minister Kamal Nath has said that steps will be taken to increase the participation of youngsters from Madhya Pradesh in the Armed Forces of the country.

Addressing a function organized by the Home Department and Directorate of Sainik Welfare at Minto Hall here on Wednesday to honour family members of martyrs, the Chief Minister said that the cooperation of ex-servicemen will be enlisted to inspire the youth to join armed forces and realise value of patriotism.

The Chief Minister paid tribute to the brave martyrs who laid their lives while discharging duties. The Chief Minister said that the interested youth will be encouraged to join the Armed Forces. The manifestation of the Spirit of Patriotism should not be limited to social media alone. He said that the discipline and distinction with which the ex-servicemen spent service period should be utilized by engaging them in social works.

The Chief Minister said that India is known for its diversity across the world. He said that there is hardly any country in the world with so much diversity in the armed forces. The people of different castes, religions and sects have only one goal of serving and protecting the nation. The youth have to be awakened towards the values of patriotism.

Kamal Nath said that it is the duty of the government to honour the family members of the martyrs and express solidarity with them. He said that the administration should be in touch with the families of the martyrs so that their problems are timely resolved. There is a need to harness the capability and talent of ex-servicemen in social work.

The martyrs whose family members were honoured included late GD Ashwini Kumar Kachhi, late Harish Chandra Pal, Constable Sandeep Yadav, Late Devendra Chand Nagle, Head Constable Late Umesh Bapu Jatav, ASI Late Amrit Lal Bhilala, Constable Bal Mukund Prajapati. Nath inquired about the well being of family members. He said that every citizen stands in their support and respect.

Minister for Minority Welfare Arif Aqueel, Minister for Law Legislative Affairs PC Sharma, former Chief Minister and Rajya Sabha MP Digvijay Singh, Chief Secretary SR Mohanty, Director General of Police VK Singh, the family members of the martyrs and distinguished citizens were present.