The flag was pinned on Amit Shah by officials from the Gujarat Sainik welfare bodies in a solemn ceremony. The presentation of the miniature flag symbolised respect and gratitude toward the armed forces, reiterating the importance of public solidarity with those who serve the nation.
A Personal Message from Amit Shah
In a post on social media platform ‘X’, Amit Shah said he was “heartened by the warm gesture” of the Gujarat Sainik organisations in presenting him the miniature flag. He paid tribute to the armed forces, saying their “relentless sacrifices for the nation” reflect the highest values of patriotism, commitment and valor.
Appealing to citizens, Shah urged everyone to contribute generously to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund to support veterans and families of martyrs describing such contributions as a meaningful way to express national gratitude.
Significance of Armed Forces Flag Day
Armed Forces Flag Day is observed every year on 7 December, a tradition instituted in 1949 to honour the men and women of India’s armed forces and to support ex-servicemen, disabled soldiers, war widows, and dependents of martyrs.
The day also serves as a reminder of the collective responsibility citizens bear to support those who safeguard the nation not only by saluting their courage, but by contributing to their welfare.
Call for Public Support
Through the flag-pinning event and his public appeal, Amit Shah emphasised that funding alone is not enough: what matters is societal respect, recognition and sustained support for those who serve. He urged individuals, communities and institutions to contribute to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund a gesture that ensures ongoing care for veterans and families who have lost loved ones in service of the nation.
As the nation pauses to remember its defenders, the message from Gujarat’s sainik bodies and the Union Home Minister resonates strongly: every citizen can and should play a role in honouring and supporting India’s armed forces beyond just words.
How to Contribute
Donations to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund can be made through official channels established by the Ministry of Defence, Government of India. Citizens are encouraged to visit the official AFFDF portal or banking channels to contribute.