Lucknow, Jan 15 (Reporter) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday said that the government is fully committed to strengthening the armed forces and the welfare of serving soldiers as well as ex-servicemen. On the occasion of 'Shaurya Sandhya' on the 76th Army Day in Lucknow, Rajnath said that the idea of celebrating Army, Navy and Air Force Day outside Delhi is to take the country's tradition and military progress to the people. "Our Army focuses on tradition as well as bringing positive change through new innovations," he said. Reiterating the government's resolve to strengthen the armed forces, he said that the Finance Ministry releases the funds demanded by the Defence Ministry without any hesitation, which is a symbol of the government's dedication towards the soldiers. The Minister said that the government is fully committed to the welfare of not only the serving soldiers but also the ex-servicemen. "Every possible effort is being made for the welfare of the soldiers including 'One Rank One Pension' scheme, health care and providing re-employment opportunities," he said. He said that the contribution of ex-servicemen in the security of the country cannot be forgotten and it was the moral and national responsibility of the people to respect them. On this occasion, he also launched the postal cover of the first day. A military and war display 'Shaurya Sandhya' was organised at Lucknow Cantonment on Monday as a part of the 76th Army Day celebrations. Apart from the Defence Minister, many dignitaries including Chief of Defense Staff General Anil Chauhan, Army Chief of Staff General Manoj Pandey participated in this programme. Martial arts like Kalaripayattu and Gatka were performed on this occasion. The thrilling performance by the Army Daredevils motorcycle team along with tent pegging and trick riding by eight horses of the Remount Veterinary Corps also enthralled the audience. Akash missiles, K9 Vajra, anti-drone equipment, Bofors guns, artillery weapon systems and other equipment and technology used by the Indian Army remained the center of attraction for the spectators. The Defence Minister described patriotism, courage, humanity and loyalty to the Indian Constitution as the four most important qualities of a soldier. He said that a soldier who protects the motherland with the spirit of 'whether I live or not, my country remains safe' is an exemplary patriot. He said, "This patriotism gives courage to the soldier. The contribution of our soldiers in UN peacekeeping operations and relief and rescue during disasters has been commendable. Also, the respect with which he treated 90,000 Pakistani soldiers during the 1971 war is proof that they have humanity. In our own neighbourhood, we can see the disconnect between the Army and their constitutional values. The Indian Army's devotion to constitutional values is incomparable and acknowledged by all." Rajnath said the Indian Army is not only focusing on tradition but also bringing positive change through new innovations and ideas. "The decision of the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government to hold Army, Navy and Air Force Day outside Delhi is based on the idea of taking the celebrations symbolising the country's tradition, as well as military progress, to the people," he said. He said, "The country is now witnessing how our forces are continuously being equipped with modern weapons and technologies powered by drones and artificial intelligence, as well as the role of women in the armed forces. Not every person gets the opportunity to join the army, but those who watched today's program could experience the preparedness of our army to protect the country. This has brought people closer to our soldiers. This will definitely inspire our youth to join the armed forces or serve the country with the same dedication and commitment as our soldiers...////...