Vikram Ditya Sharma/ Ferozepur
In a landmark move to foster national pride and boost tourism in border regions, the Indian Army's Golden Arrow Division has reopened the historic Ferozepur Fort to the public. This marks the first time in over 200 years that this significant architectural and historical site has been accessible to the public, a testament to the Indian Army's commitment to connecting local populations with India’s rich military and cultural heritage.This approach underscores the government's commitment to preserving national heritage and promoting responsible border tourism.
A formal inauguration ceremony was held today at the fort. The event was attended by Major General RS Manral, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC), Golden Arrow Division, along with Brigadier Bikram Singh, Station Commander and President, Cantonment Board. Senior civil and military officials, local villagers, and students from nearby schools and colleges attended the ceremony.
Speaking at the event, GOC Manral emphasized that this initiative aligns perfectly with the Indian Army’s dedication to promoting border tourism and preserving the nation's rich heritage.
In another major decision, Army Public School, Ferozepur has come forward to adopt the Ferozepur Fort for the purpose of conducting research and scholarly studies. As part of this initiative, two students from APS Ferozepur conducted a guided tour for the visitors, demonstrating the youth’s engagement in preserving and promoting the region’s heritage.
Strategically positioned near the Indo-Pakistan border, Ferozepur Fort is a remarkable example of 19th-century military architecture from the Sikh Empire. Its unique hexagonal design and robust defensive features showcase the strategic ingenuity of its time. Once a critical outpost in the Sikh Raj’s frontier defense network, the fort holds enduring tales of courage and resistance and also features prominently in narratives of the First War of Independence in 1857.
Strategically positioned near the Indo-Pakistan border, Ferozepur Fort is a remarkable example of 19th-century military architecture from the Sikh Empire. Its unique hexagonal design and robust defensive features showcase the strategic ingenuity of its time. Once a critical outpost in the Sikh Raj’s frontier defense network, the fort holds enduring tales of courage and resistance and also features prominently in narratives of the First War of Independence in 1857.
While congratulating the efforts of the Indian Army, the members of Indian National Trust for Arts & Cultural Heritage (INTACH) Ferozepur Chapter said that this move will go a long way in boosting the tourism in this region.
“Opening the fort to the public will not only preserve its heritage but also generate employment opportunities in the region. It would be a golden opportunity for the upcoming generations to know about his historical fort. Moreover it would also open the gates for the tourists who will be able to visit the fort”, said Shalinder Laroia a local businessman.