जब देश पुकारे, तो हम तैयार खड़े हों” – Governor Kataria’s Call to the Youth Echoes Across Chandigarh
Over 3,000 Volunteers Enroll as Civil Defence Heroes at Tagore Theatre and Tiranga Urban Park.
An Emotional Appeal by the Administrator Inspires a New Generation of Invisible Warriors.
The Voice of Canada-The Voice of Chandigarh News
It was not just a Civil Defence enrollment drive; it was a stirring call to duty. Under the wise and heartfelt leadership of Punjab Governor and Administrator of UT Chandigarh, Gulab Chand Kataria, more than 3,000 young citizens stepped forward with unwavering resolve to serve as Civil Defence volunteers in a time of growing uncertainty.
Held at Tagore Theatre in Sector 18 and Tiranga Urban Park in Sector 17, the event witnessed not only an overwhelming response but also a surge of national pride and youthful determination.
The Governor’s presence electrified the atmosphere. His words, full of emotion and moral clarity, struck a deep chord with every listener – especially the youth, who stood silently yet solemnly as he addressed them not as mere citizens, but as protectors of the nation’s soul.
Recalling India’s long tradition of unsung heroes who served without rank or recognition, Governor Kataria spoke with reverence of the invisible warriors of the past – those who during the wars of 1962, 1965, and 1971 turned schools into bunkers, carried the wounded to safety, and worked day and night with no expectation of reward. “They had no medals,” he said, “but they had the heart of India beating inside them.”
He reminded everyone that while our brave soldiers guard our borders, it is the responsibility of civil volunteers to safeguard the spirit of our nation from within – in our streets, our homes, our neighborhoods. “Civil Defence is not just a service,” he declared, “it is an emotion, a sacred responsibility – a vow to stand up when the motherland calls.”
In his powerful address, Governor Kataria made a heartfelt appeal to the youth, urging them to become the strength behind the frontline. “You are the future of India,” he said, “but in this moment, you are also its shield.”
At Tagore Theatre, the sound of applause after his speech was thunderous. At Tiranga Urban Park, under the waving tricolour, hundreds took the pledge to serve not just in times of war, but in every crisis – be it disaster, emergency, or the need for calm in chaos. For many, it was a turning point – a moment when being a citizen took on a deeper meaning.
As thousands signed up, their eyes reflected a new purpose – inspired by a leader who didn’t just speak to them, but believed in them. The Governor walked amongst the volunteers, exchanging words of encouragement, placing a reassuring hand on shoulders, and reminding each one: “You are no less than a soldier. You carry India’s trust.”
This historic day marked the enrollment of over 3,000 Civil Defence volunteers – young, determined, and ready to rise whenever their nation needs them. It was more than a success – it was the rekindling of a movement, led from the front by a statesman whose voice carries the wisdom of experience and the warmth of a patriot.
Mandip Singh Brar, Home Secretary, Chandigarh, Nishant Kumar Yadav, Deputy Commissioner, Chandigarh,SSP UT, Chandigarh Kanwardeep Kaur and other officers of Chandigarh Administration were also present during the event.
