Ahmedabad remembers Major Rishikesh Ramani

In a state where very few persons opt to join the armed forces, Major Rishikesh Ramani grew up nursing his dream of joining the Army and protecting his motherland.

Ramani was killed while fighting the terrorists during a search operation, in Kupwara district, near the Line of Control in Kashmir.

The city observed the first death anniversary of Major Ramani on Monday, by organizing several programmes. 

Three terrorists were killed before Major Ramani, along with one jawan and a junior commissioned officer, succumbed to the terror bullets pumped in them by 10 militants.

Hiren Ramani, cousin of the martyr said, "Major Ramani's martyrdom is a source of inspiration for the coming generations."

Major Ramani's statue was unveiled at his village, Nawa Vaghama in Amreli district on Sunday. The villagers have contributed to the installation of the statue, while the gram panchayat has provided land for the purpose.

Major Ramani, who belonged to Basantdar Company of IMA, had prepared a theme song during his training. The company has adopted some parts of this song in the anthem, said Hiren Ramani.

To mark the day, the Rishikesh Ramani trust on Monday organised a programme at Chandra Prasad Desai Hall, Bapunagar, Ahmedabad.

The speakers present on the occasion threw light on Major Ramani's life. Devotional and valorous songs were sung on this occasion. Last year, the state government named a health centre, at the Sabarmati Central jail, for him.