President of India Flags Off PBG Soldierathon

Why in news

The President of India virtually flagged off the PBG (President’s Bodyguards) Soldierathon, an event aimed at strengthening the bond between civilians and the Armed Forces and supporting soldiers and their welfare.

Exam relevance

GS2, GS4 · Governance, Society, Ethics · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The President of India, Smt Droupadi Murmu, virtually flagged off the PBG Soldierathon.
2. The event was held at the Forecourt of Rashtrapati Bhavan.
3. General (Dr) VK Singh (Retd), Governor of Mizoram, was present as the patron of the initiative.
4. A Special Postal Cover was released to commemorate the occasion.
5. The race venue was Cariappa Parade Ground, Delhi Cantonment.
6. The Soldierathon aims to strengthen the bond between civilians and the Armed Forces.
7. The theme of the event is 'Supporting Real Heroes – the Armed Forces of India.'
8. Races are held in 3Km, 5Km, and 10Km categories.
9. Proceeds are used to support the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre of Armed Forces and welfare of wards of battle casualties.
10. The PBG Soldierathon specifically intends to support the horses and troops of the PBG.

Prelims pointers

• The President of India is the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces.
• PBG stands for President's Bodyguards.
• The Soldierathon aims to bridge the gap between civilians and the Armed Forces.
• Proceeds from the event support military welfare initiatives.

Mains practice question

Discuss the significance of civil-military relations in India and how events like the PBG Soldierathon contribute to strengthening this bond and supporting the welfare of armed forces personnel.

Static linkage

The President's Bodyguards (PBG) is an elite military unit of the Indian Army. The event highlights the role of the President as the Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces and the importance of civil-military relations in India.

Significance

The Soldierathon serves as a crucial platform for fostering goodwill and mutual respect between the civilian population and the Indian Armed Forces. By encouraging active participation, it allows citizens to express solidarity with soldiers, acknowledging their sacrifices and dedication. The proceeds from the event contribute directly to the welfare of soldiers, including support for rehabilitation centers and families of fallen personnel, thereby strengthening the social fabric and support system for the military.