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Manekshaw led by example: Pratibha

Special Correspondent

NEW DELHI: In a rare gesture, the government accorded a State funeral to Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw even as President Pratibha Patil led the nation in paying tributes to the highly decorated officer. Minister of State for Defence Pallam Raju attended the funeral.

However, Defence Minister A.K. Antony could not go due to a busy schedule while Chief of the Army Staff Deepak Kapoor is in Russia and was apparently unable to cut short his visit though the Field Marshal’s condition had become critical on Wednesday night.

Gen. Kapoor conveyed his condolences on his passing away and the Vice-Chief of the Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Milan Naidu represented him. No other Cabinet Minister attended the funeral.

Ms. Patil said: “Throughout his long and distinguished career, Field Marshal Manekshaw always led by example and was therefore able to inspire his men and get the best out of them. In his passing away, the nation has lost a true patriot, who shall always remain an inspiration for our armed forces and well as our nation.” Vice-President Hamid Ansari said the Field Marshal would remain an inspirational figure whose services would be remembered always.

Manmohan’s tribute

Prime Minister Manmohan Singh said Field Marshal Manekshaw had served the Army with great distinction and was the architect of the military victory in what is now Bangladesh. “I am sure his legacy will continue to live with us for years to come.” Mr. Antony pointed out that the Field Marshal Manekshaw was not only one of the greatest soldiers of all times but a true patriot who contributed everything to protect the integrity of India and safeguard the prestige of our nation.

Lok Sabha Speaker Somnath Chatterjee said Field Marshal Manekshaw made a great contribution to make the Army what it is today and about which “we are all proud.”

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