Pics: Spoorthi Ullal
Daijiworld Media Network – Mangalore (DV)

Mangalore, Jan 28: Dakshina Kannada Kodava Students Association observed 114th birth anniversary of Field Marshal General Cariappa at Kadri War Memorial to pay tribute to the great soldier.

N Prakash, deputy commissioner of Dakishna Kannada said, “Field Marshal General Cariappa was great a man, known for his bravery, discipline and dedication to the nation. He is an inspiration to all.”

Captain Ganesh Karnik in his inspirational address said, “General Cariappa’s contribution to the nation is immense; his birth anniversary should be celebrated throughout the nation.  From past 65 years, more than 65,000 soldiers sacrificed their life for the sake of the nation.  Though all of us cannot join the army, we can serve the nation in our daily deeds and show our respect to the nation. Kodagu has given great soldiers to this nation. When Pakistan occupied POK in 1948, General Thimayya said “Give me one week time, I will occupy every inch of land what we have lost today”. In 1971, during the Indo- Pak war, our army captured upto Lahore but unfortunately our army was called back. 90,000 Pakistani soldiers from eastern fronts and 4,000 soldiers from western fronts were taken as prisoners but were later freed. Today the Kodagu youths are moving towards IT BT, while the number of youths joining army is becoming less.”
 
Advisor of Kodava Students Association, S P Chengappa said, “Field Marshal General Cariappa was the first person if India to become the Field Marshall General for army, navy and air force. He was first Indian to receive Legion of Merit award.”

Nikhil Cariappa along with Darshini Dechamma submitted a memorandum to DC Chengappa the statue of Field Marshal General Cariappa to be installed at Nanthoor Circle.

Nalin Kumar Kateel MP, Capt Brijesh, state award winner Kasturi and Sudharathana were present on the occasion.

Darshini Dechamma welcomed, Harshitha Mandanna compered.