Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh inaugurates the Fragrance Park in Lucknow
Defence Minister Shri Rajnath Singh today inaugurated the Fragrance Park in Lucknow and said that modern cities are built by creating spaces where people can connect with nature and enjoy a better quality of life. “A truly modern city is one where facilities are accompanied by spaces for relaxation, recreation and connection with nature,” he said.
The Defence Minister said that parks are not only important for the beauty of a city but also serve as important social infrastructure. Parks and public spaces bring people together. In an increasingly busy lifestyle, such spaces help strengthen social bonds.
The Defence Minister noted that the park has been named after Lala Lajpat Rai Ji, while a statue of Shaheed-e-Azam Bhagat Singh Ji has also been installed here. He said that it is a way of keeping the nation’s collective memory alive and introducing future generations to inspiring personalities.
He said that children visiting the park may one day ask their parents about Lala Lajpat Rai, and in the process learn about the life of the great freedom fighter. Similarly, the statue of Bhagat Singh will inspire young people to learn about his courage and sacrifice for India’s freedom.
The Defence Minister said that Lala Lajpat Rai and Bhagat Singh belonged to different generations, but both were united by their dedication to the nation and their shared goal of India’s freedom.
He described their presence together at the park as a symbolic dialogue between two generations; one representing experience, leadership and maturity gained through years of struggle, and the other representing the energy, courage and fearlessness of India’s youth.
Shri Rajnath Singh said that the combination of experience and youthful energy is equally important for nation-building.
He said that whether it is Millennials or Gen-Z, Baby Boomers or Gen-X, every generation has an important role to play in the development of the nation.
Shri Rajnath Singh said that India today is a free, democratic and constitutional republic as well as a welfare state. However, preserving these achievements requires continuous commitment and a sense of responsibility.
He cautioned against forces that seek to weaken the country by exploiting social divisions and narrow interests. Referring to what he described as “intellectual Naxalism”, he said that such tendencies can work silently like termites and that society must remain vigilant against them.
He called upon citizens to work towards making India a global leader in economy, knowledge and science.