Amritsar to Host Military Literature Festival Next Year

The Military Literature Festival, an event aimed at spreading awareness about the crucial role of the armed forces and inspiring the youth, is set to return for its second district-level edition in Amritsar. Organized by the Military Literature Festival Association and chaired by Lt-Gen TS Shergill (retd.), this event follows the successful inaugural edition held in Patiala in January.

District-Level Expansions

The decision to host the festival at the district level reflects the commitment of the Punjab state of government, as highlighted by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann during last year’s festival in Chandigarh. The objective is to create greater awareness about the armed forces and motivate the youth, fostering a deeper understanding of their role in national security.

Key Details and Participants

The festival is scheduled for early 2024, taking into account the examination schedule of students and other logistical factors. The upcoming edition, set to be inaugurated in Chandigarh on December 2 by Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann, boasts an impressive lineup of speakers. Notable participants include former Union Minister Mani Shankar Aiyar and Manish Tewari, IFS Ajay Bisaria and esteemed military veterans such as Lt Gen SL Narsimhan, Lt Gen Prakash Menon, Lt Gen KJ Singh and Lt Gen JS Cheema. Additionally, Tibetologist Claude Arpi and historians Prof Indu Banga and Dr. Karamjit Malhotra will contribute their insights.

Focus on Punjab and Punjabiyat

A distinctive feature of this edition is the emphasis on Punjab and Punjabiyat, exploring the military history of the region. Discussions will delve into the strategic vision of Maharaja Ranjit Singh, examining his significant contributions through conquest, which added territories like Khyber-Pakhtunkhwa, Kashmir, Ballistan and Ladakh to the Indian nation.

Global Perspectives

The festival recognizes the importance of global issues affecting stability and peace. Expert discussions will address potentially destabilizing and polarizing conflicts in regions like Ukraine and the Middle East, analyzing their global impact. Contemporary regional issues will also be explored, providing attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the geopolitical landscape.