Volunteers Called “Invisible Warriors” as Punjab Governor Inspires Patriotic Fervour
Chandigarh, May 10 — In a stirring display of patriotism, more than 3,000 young individuals enrolled as civil defence volunteers in Chandigarh on Saturday, just hours before India and Pakistan formally agreed to a ceasefire. The event, held amidst heightened military tension, resonated with powerful appeals to national service and solidarity.Civil defence enrolment and training camps were organised at Tagore Theatre in Sector 18 and Tiranga Urban Park in Sector 17. The turnout was overwhelming, reflecting a collective resolve among the youth to step forward in the nation’s hour of need.
Punjab Governor and Chandigarh Administrator Gulab Chand Kataria delivered a moving address that struck a chord with the gathered youth. Speaking of civil defence not merely as a service but as “a sacred responsibility,” Kataria honoured the legacy of “invisible warriors” who served without rank or recognition during past wars in 1962, 1965 and 1971.
He urged the young volunteers to become the backbone behind India’s frontline forces.
At Tiranga Urban Park, hundreds of new volunteers stood solemnly under the national flag to take a pledge of service — not just in wartime, but during all national emergencies and disasters.
The Governor personally interacted with many of the volunteers, lauding them as being “no less than a soldier” in their commitment to the nation.
This mass enrolment occurred just hours before Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri announced a ceasefire agreement between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs) of India and Pakistan. The ceasefire, effective from 5 PM on Saturday, marked a pause in escalating hostilities.
As peace returns to the border, the spirit of civil defence has found new strength in Chandigarh, embodied by thousands of young citizens ready to serve the nation whenever called upon.