In India’s collective consciousness, a soldier killed in the line of duty is not seen as just a casualty of war, but as a martyr, a ‘shaheed’ whose sacrifice becomes part of the nation’s identity.On Martyrs’ Day, observed on March 23, India remembers the sacrifice of Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru, who were executed by the British in 1931. Their legacy continues in the sacrifices of the soldiers who serve the country today, and Martyrs’ Day is an opportunity to understand how India honours their acts of bravery.Over time, India has built a system to honour its fallen soldiers, combining official ceremonies, support for families, and public memory.From the Amar Chakra at the National War Memorial to pensions and education schemes that reach families in remote areas, India tries to ensure that no soldier who dies for the nation is forgotten.The most solemn event is the arrival of a martyr’s body in a hometown. The coffin is often draped in the national flag and escorted by a guard of honour, with local politicians, police, and civil society leaders present.In many cases, the local community organises a procession and a brief ceremony, showing that the martyr belongs not just to the regiment, but also to the village, the town, and the nation.

Gallantry awards

India’s gallantry awards are among the highest honours given to members of the armed forces and, in some cases, civilians.Recipients’ families are invited to formal ceremonies, often at Rashtrapati Bhavan, where the medal is presented, and the story of the soldier’s valour narrated.The highest wartime award is the Param Vir Chakra, awarded for “most conspicuous bravery” in the presence of the enemy. It is followed by the Maha Vir Chakra and the Vir Chakra, which recognise acts of gallantry during military operations.In peacetime, the country awards the Ashoka Chakra, Kirti Chakra, and Shaurya Chakra for acts of bravery, including counter-insurgency operations and rescue missions.

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These awards are announced on Republic Day and Independence Day, ensuring national recognition for acts of courage.

National War Memorial

The National War Memorial in New Delhi stands as a central place of remembrance for soldiers who died in service after independence.The memorial stands with an eternal flame called the Amar Chakra (Circle of immortality) at its centre. Before the National War Memorial, the Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate served as the main site for paying tribute to soldiers, especially those who died in the 1971 war.Around the Amar Chakra, concentric “walls of honour” are inscribed with the names of more than 26,000 soldiers, each slab symbolising the ancient war formation of a ‘Chakravyuh’, and every soldier’s name etched in granite to signify permanence and dignity.Every evening, a Retreat Ceremony is held at the National War Memorial, where the national flag and the flags of the Army, Navy, and Air Force are lowered before sunset as the Last Post is sounded.On Sundays and special occasions, a Change-of-Guard ceremony, accompanied by military band displays, draws schoolchildren, tourists, and veterans.Wreath-laying ceremonies by the Prime Minister and senior officials are held here on important national occasions.The memorial reflects India’s effort to create a permanent space to honour its fallen soldiers.

National War Memorial, Delhi

Support to families

Beyond memorials, India also honours its soldiers through a strong welfare and support system for their families.This is both a moral responsibility and a form of social security for families who have lost a member in service.Families of martyrs receive central ex gratia payments, along with pension schemes that provide long-term financial support.Pensions for war-bereaved families are usually set at 100% of the soldier’s last drawn basic pay, along with other components, helping widows and children maintain financial stability.Additional support includes education allowances covering tuition and hostel fees for children, cashless medical care under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), and benefits related to housing and small business support.Some state and central schemes also provide financial assistance for the marriage of daughters or remarriage of widows, along with interest subsidies on home loans to help families rebuild their lives.Employment support is another key measure, with the government reserving certain jobs for the next of kin of fallen soldiers.

Martyrs’ Day: Remembering Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev, and Rajguru

Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev

On March 23, 1931, three young revolutionaries, Bhagat Singh, Sukhdev Thapar, and Shivaram Rajguru were executed, becoming enduring symbols of courage and defiance against British colonial rule. They had been sentenced to death in the Lahore Conspiracy Case. The spark for their action came after the brutal death of Lala Lajpat Rai. While leading a protest against the Simon Commission, Rai was beaten by Superintendent of Police J S Scott and later died of his injuries on 17th November 1928. Outraged, Bhagat Singh, Rajguru, Sukhdev, and Chandra Shekhar Azad plotted to avenge his death. In a case of mistaken identity, they shot another officer, Saunders, instead. Initially, the British were unaware of the culprits. It was only a handwritten poster by Bhagat Singh explaining the motive behind the killing that linked him and his comrades to Saunders’ death. Later, Bhagat Singh’s dramatic protest in the Central Legislative Assembly on 8th April 1929, where he threw a bomb against two oppressive bills, brought him to the authorities’ attention. Even facing execution, the three showed no fear. They walked to the gallows at Lahore Central Jail with pride, shouting “Inquilab zindabad.” Bhagat Singh famously sang Mera Rang De Basanti Chola- “O mother! Dye my robe the colour of spring,” turning his death into a celebration of freedom rather than despair. Despite appeals for clemency and widespread public support, the three were executed, leaving a lasting legacy. Today, Martyrs’ Day is a tribute to their bravery, self-sacrifice, and patriotism. Their courage continues to inspire generations of Indians.Martyrs’ Day, therefore, is a reminder of the cost of freedom and the responsibility of every citizen. It honours those who fought for the nation and inspires people to uphold the values of courage, commitment, and selflessness.

The immediate resistance is seen near Rs 142,000-145,000, which aligns with the middle Bollinger Band and prior support zone. (AI image)

Gold price prediction today: Gold is seeing intense selling pressure and this is likely to continue this week amid global tensions, says Manav Modi, Senior Analyst, Commodity Research at Motilal Oswal Financial Services Ltd.Gold prices have witnessed a sharp decline, marking their worst performances in years, as rising inflation concerns and expectations of prolonged higher interest rates outweighed safe-haven demand. Escalating tensions in the US-Israel-Iran conflict pushed crude oil prices above $100, fueling fears of sustained energy-driven inflation. Central banks have maintained a cautious stance, with the Fed holding rates steady while signaling inflation risks, and others like the RBA hiking rates. Stronger US dollar and rising bond yields further pressured bullion. Despite intermittent stability from easing oil prices, markets shifted away from rate cut expectations, limiting gold’s upside amid persistent geopolitical uncertainty.The focus this week will be on Preliminary PMI reports from major economies. Gold has turned technically weak after a sharp breakdown from the recent consolidation range. Prices have slipped below the middle Bollinger Band (20 SMA), indicating loss of bullish momentum, and are now approaching the lower band—suggesting increased downside volatility. The recent price action resembles a distribution top followed by a breakdown, confirming a short-term bearish structure.The immediate resistance is seen near Rs 142,000-145,000, which aligns with the middle Bollinger Band and prior support zone. A stronger resistance is placed at Rs 150,000, where repeated rejections were observed earlier. On the downside, key support lies around Rs 136,000, and a decisive break below this could extend the fall towards Rs 130,000 -128,000 levels.Volume expansion during the decline indicates strong selling pressure. Unless prices reclaim Rs 145,000 quickly, the bias remains sell-on-rise for the week.(Disclaimer: Recommendations and views on the stock market, other asset classes or personal finance management tips given by experts are their own. These opinions do not represent the views of The Times of India)

Four vehicles belonging to the Jewish community ambulance service were set on fire on Monday in Golders Green, London. The British police are treating the incident as an ‘antisemitic hate crime’.According to CCTV footage, three people were seen approaching one of the ambulances and setting it on fire. The suspects were later seen fleeing the scene, with plumes of thick smoke rising into the sky.Additional videos circulating online on social media showed the vehicles ablaze and the smoke spreading across the area.The vehicles belong to Hatzola Northwest, a volunteer organisation providing emergency medical response. The London Fire Brigade (LFB) said four ambulances were damaged, with multiple cylinders exploding and causing windows to break in a nearby block of flats. As of now, no injuries have been reported, according to AP. Fire crews responded swiftly, sending six engines and around 40 firefighters to the scene to control the blaze. Officers were called to Highfield Road, Golders Green, around 1.45 am (local time) following reports of the fire.Police Superintendent Sarah Jackson, who oversees policing in the area, said: “We know this incident will cause a great deal of community concern. Officers remain on scene to carry out urgent enquiries. We are examining CCTV and online footage and believe we are looking for three suspects at this early stage. There have been no arrests yet, and we urge anyone with information to contact us as soon as possible, anonymously if preferred.“She added that additional patrols are being deployed and police are engaging with faith leaders to reassure the local community, as reported by the Guardian. Shomrim, a neighbourhood watch group in Golders Green, reported hearing loud explosions early Monday. They clarified that the blasts were caused by oxygen tanks in the ambulances, not by bombs or explosive devices. Some buildings were evacuated as a precaution, but no casualties occurred.The Metropolitan Police continue to investigate the incident and authorities have urged residents to avoid the area while inquiries are ongoing.

JAIPUR: A 36-year-old civilian employee posted at an Air Force station in Assam was arrested Sunday for allegedly passing sensitive military information to Pakistan-based handlers, in what officials said was a joint Rajasthan Intelligence-Air Force Intelligence operation that exposed a wider espionage network.The accused, Sumit Kumar, a resident of Prayagraj in Uttar Pradesh, was working as Multi-Tasking Staff at Air Force Station Chabua in Assam. Investigators said he had been in contact with Pakistani intelligence operatives since 2023 and was allegedly sharing confidential information for money.The case dates back to Jan, when Rajasthan Intelligence arrested Jaisalmer resident Jhabraram. During interrogation, Kumar’s name emerged as a key link in the network, after which agencies placed him under surveillance.Officials said Kumar allegedly misused his position to access and pass on sensitive information related to Air Force operations, including details of fighter aircraft deployment, missile systems, and information on officers and personnel at Air Force Station Chabua and Air Force Station Nal in Bikaner.Investigators also found that he allegedly helped Pakistani handlers create social media accounts using mobile numbers registered in his name, allowing covert communication.On confirmed inputs, Rajasthan Intelligence, in coordination with Air Force Intelligence, detained Kumar from Chabua and brought him to Jaipur’s Central Interrogation Centre for questioning. After joint interrogation by multiple agencies, he was formally arrested under the Official Secrets Act, 1923, and relevant sections of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita.Officials described the operation as “a significant breakthrough”, saying it pointed to a broader Pakistan-backed espionage network targeting defence installations across the country. Further investigation is underway to identify other links and handlers involved.

As the 2026 Indian Premier League (IPL) season looms, the air in Mumbai is thick with anticipation. The Wankhede Stadium, fresh off hosting a high-octane T20 World Cup semifinal where India edged out England by seven runs, is once again preparing to become the ‘Blue fortress’. At the heart of this storm is Hardik Pandya. Now 32 and a seasoned veteran with five IPL titles to his name, the Mumbai Indians (MI) skipper isn’t just looking for another trophy; he is looking to etch a permanent philosophy into the franchise’s DNA.

Hardik Pandya’s vision for Mumbai Indians in IPL 2026

For Pandya, the goal for IPL 2026 is crystal clear: “The ultimate dream is to win the IPL for the sixth time.” However, during a passionate interaction with fans at the MI MIX zone on Sunday, Pandya emphasized that silverware is only half the story. His true ambition lies in “building a legacy” that transcends individual seasons.

“At the same time, it’s about building a legacy. Mumbai Indians already have an incredible legacy, but I still remember when I was a new kid – the passion, the hard work, and how the team backed me and helped me grow,” he added.

Pandya spoke candidly about the ‘MI Way’, a culture of relentless passion and backing that transformed him from a new kid into a global superstar. He envisions a 2026 campaign where the team doesn’t just win, but plays the “best cricket Mumbai Indians have ever played.” By fostering an environment where players are encouraged to step up and embrace the grind, Pandya hopes to ensure that the franchise’s storied legacy of hard work continues long after his own playing days are over.

Also READ: SWOT Analysis of Mumbai Indians: MI’s report card ahead of the IPL 2026

From Baroda to the blue jersey: The power of MI’s scouting

The skipper’s journey serves as the primary blueprint for the “fearless brand of cricket” MI is known for. Recalling his humble beginnings, Pandya shared how he was a dedicated batter in Baroda during the 2014-15 season, known more for his stamina, running 15 rounds when asked for 12, than his all-round capabilities. His big break came unexpectedly during a Ranji match when MI scouts, who weren’t even there to watch him, spotted something special.

This world-class scouting system, which also unearthed gems like Jasprit Bumrah, remains the backbone of the squad’s 2026 strategy. Kieron Pollard, the MI batting coach, noted that this youthful exuberance is what makes the current camp so dangerous. Pollard credited Pandya’s own larger than life yet hardworking persona as the catalyst for the next generation of MI stars. According to Pollard, the 2026 roster is filled with youngsters who are fearless from the outset, ready to replicate the electric atmosphere of the recent World Cup victory at the Wankhede. As Pandya rightly noted, the fans are the “voice of the team,” and in 2026, he expects that voice to be louder than ever.

Also READ: IPL 2026: Irfan Pathan makes big claim on uncapped MI pacer’s lethal slower ball

As tensions in the Middle East stretch into their fourth week, shockwaves are now being felt across global markets and gold is no exception. The precious metal has taken a sharp hit, tumbling to its steepest weekly fall in nearly four decades, with prices reaching $4,354 per ounce.The fall marks a swift retreat from levels of around $5,200 per ounce seen on March 13, highlighting the speed and scale of the correction. The metal had earlier surged to an all-time high of $5,595.51 before losing momentum.The sharp decline is raising concerns about gold’s traditional safe-haven status. Market participants note that despite ongoing geopolitical tensions, the yellow metal has struggled to hold its appeal, with broader financial factors taking centre stage.Gold prices fallAccording to a report by The Wall Street Journal, the recent decline may open up opportunities for long-term investors looking to enter the market at lower levels.Priyanka Sachdeva told WSJ “this correction is a golden opportunity for staggered entry by long-term buyers,” she said.The report added that a sustained move below $4,400 per ounce has brought the 200-day moving average of $4,154 per ounce into view as a potential support level before any stabilisation.Data from ICE showed spot gold trading 2.0% lower at $4,400.44 per ounce, after touching an intraday low of $4,320.08, its weakest level since early January.The downturn has also been linked to expectations of liquidity-driven selling in global markets amid the ongoing Middle East conflict. Gold proceeds with a ‘cautious tone’Ole Hansen, Saxo Bank’s Head of Commodity Strategy, told WSJ that there is speculation some economies may need to raise liquidity, which could include selling gold.“While not a confirmed driver, it adds to the more cautious tone,” he said.He further noted that gold’s inability to rally despite geopolitical tensions suggests other factors are currently dominating market behaviour.“Gold’s failure to rally despite geopolitical stress highlights the current dominance of higher real yields, a firmer dollar and position adjustment over its traditional safe-haven role,” he said.Analysts broadly indicate that while the correction has been sharp, the current price levels may still present selective buying opportunities for investors with a long-term perspective, even as short-term volatility continues.(Disclaimer: Recommendations and views on the stock market, other asset classes or personal finance management tips given by experts are their own. These opinions do not represent the views of The Times of India)