Odisha Governor Dr Hari Babu Kambhampati hosted Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi at Lok Bhavan today.
The Governor extended warm congratulations to General Dwivedi and the entire Indian Army for the successful execution of Operation Sindoor, praising their unwavering dedication and exemplary service to the nation.
Operation Sindoor, conducted in May 2025, was India’s decisive response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. The operation involved precision strikes on nine terror camps and launchpads linked to groups like Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e-Taiba in Pakistan and PoK, significantly disrupting terrorist infrastructure while demonstrating India’s calibrated yet firm approach to cross-border threats.
Following the meeting, the Governor and the Army Chief together visited Atal Van, a serene ecological space within the Lok Bhavan premises dedicated to former Prime Minister Shri Atal Bihari Vajpayee. The Governor highlighted how Atal Van beautifully integrates lush nature with symbols of national pride.
A standout feature of the visit was the T-55 battle tank installed at Atal Van. The Governor described it as “a proud symbol of the Indian Army’s role in the 1971 war and the courage of our brave soldiers.” This historic Soviet-origin tank played a key role in India’s armored operations during the 1971 Indo-Pak War, contributing to the liberation of Bangladesh.
Atal Van, inaugurated in early January 2026 by former Vice President M. Venkaiah Naidu, forms part of the Lok Bhavan Gardens. The space features rose and seasonal flower beds, stone sculptures, sightings of deer and peacocks, and a musical fountain — creating a harmonious blend of environmental consciousness and patriotic remembrance in line with Vajpayee’s vision.
This visit follows the Governor’s earlier meeting with General Dwivedi at Raj Bhavan, where a commemorative plaque was presented in recognition of Operation Sindoor.
