Rajnath Singh recalls contribution of 60 Para Field Ambulance during Korean War
Paju, May 21
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Thursday paid tributes to Indian soldiers who served during the Korean war at a commemorative ceremony at Imjingak Peace Park, honouring their contributions.
Speaking at the 75th anniversary of the Korean War, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid heartfelt tributes to the brave soldiers who sacrificed their lives for peace in the region.
"This memorial is a symbol of courage, compassion and sacrifice. It also conveys the centuries-old friendship between India and Korea. More than seven decades ago, when the Korean Peninsula was engulfed in the tragedy of war, India fulfilled its responsibility towards humanity. Inspired by the virtues of peace and service, India, through its 60 Para field unit ambulances, contributed to the war", he said.
Rajnath Singh was received by Kwon Oh-eul at the memorial site and visited a photo exhibition showcasing the contribution of Indian troops during the Korean War.
During the programme, an MoU signing ceremony and unveiling of memorial signage were held in the presence of senior officials from both countries. The national anthems of India and the Republic of Korea were also performed by a military band.
A wreath-laying ceremony was conducted at the memorial, followed by a two-minute silence and the playing of the Last Post in honour of fallen soldiers.
Addressing the gathering, Kwon Oh-eul highlighted the contribution of Indian personnel during the Korean War and reaffirmed the importance of preserving the shared legacy between the two nations.
During the ceremony, the Korean War Hero Certificate for May 2026 was presented to Ms Kalpana Prasad, niece of Colonel AG Rangaraj, in recognition of his distinguished service during the war.
Earlier, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Minister of National Defence of the Republic of Korea (RoK) Ahn Gyu-back held comprehensive bilateral discussions in Seoul on May 20.
According to the Ministry of Defence, the two Ministers reviewed the entire spectrum of defence cooperation and discussed ways to further expand collaboration in areas such as industry, production, maritime security, emerging technologies, military exchanges, logistics & regional security.
Both sides acknowledged the growing convergence between India's Act East Policy and RoK's regional strategic vision, reiterating their commitment to strengthening defence ties in line with the shared objectives of maintaining a free, open, inclusive and rule-based Indo-Pacific.
Memoranda of Understandings (MoUs) were inked in key areas of defence cooperation, reflecting the expanding scope and depth of the bilateral partnership. Agreements were exchanged on promoting cooperation in the field of Defence Cyber; training between India's National Defence College and Korea National Defence University; and UN Peacekeeping Cooperation, making the partnership stronger and multidimensional.
Singh also met Minister of Defence Acquisition Program Administration, Republic of Korea Lee Yong-chul, with both leaders agreeing to harness the symbiotic efforts to create avenues for joint development, joint production and joint exports.
A roadmap to unlock the potential of the India-Korea Defence Innovation Accelerator Ecosystem (KIND-X) to synergise the innovation ecosystems of the two countries was discussed.
Later, Rajnath Singh chaired the India-RoK Defence Industry Business RoundTable, which brought together senior government officials and leading defence industry representatives from both countries. The interaction provided an important platform for exploring new opportunities in defence manufacturing, co-development, co-production and supply chain partnerships.
Addressing the business leaders, the Defence Minister highlighted India's growing defence industrial ecosystem and the opportunities available under the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Government's initiatives aimed at promoting indigenous defence manufacturing and global partnerships. He invited Korean defence companies to strengthen engagement with the Indian industry and contribute towards long-term, mutually beneficial collaboration.
He appreciated the enthusiasm of Korean and Indian companies to jointly play a pivotal role in the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
— ANI
Reader Comments
This is a beautiful gesture, but I wish such recognition happened more often for our veterans back home. Let's not forget the countless Indian soldiers who served in various peacekeeping missions and wars—they deserve our gratitude every day, not just on anniversaries. 🙏
Great to see India-Korea ties strengthening! The MoUs on defence cyber, peacekeeping, and joint production are exactly what we need. Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing is the right path forward. Looking forward to more collaboration with nations like Korea. 🚀
It's wonderful that India's contributions to the Korean War are being remembered. The 60 Para Field Ambulance is a lesser-known story, but their role in medical evacuation and humanitarian aid was truly remarkable. Kudos to the Indian Army's medical corps!
All good, but I hope this isn't just another photo-op. The real test will be whether the MoUs lead to actual technology transfer and manufacturing partnerships. We need tangible outcomes, not just ceremonies and handshakes. Still, respecting our soldiers is always welcome.
The Indian Army's role in the Korean War is a testament to our nation's commitment to global peace. From field ambulances to peacekeeping, we've always stood for humanity. Proud that Colonel AG Rangaraj's service was finally recognized through his niece. Salute to all fallen heroes! 🙇♂️
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