The fifth day of the Ladakh Book Festival 2026 at the NDS Memorial Sports Complex featured a diverse programme of children’s activities, military heritage, literature, youth engagement and cultural performances under the overarching theme, “Indian Military History: Valour and Wisdom.”

The day began with children’s activities, including “Clown Town Express” by Muskan and Farman, followed by “Na yi Deb, Let’s Make a Book,” an interactive workshop led by Tsering Lhanzes.

The morning programme also featured the “Voice of Youth: Inter-School Debate Competition,” in which students from Government Girls Higher Secondary School and Army Public School (APS) Lake debated the impact of technology on reading habits.
Participating students were felicitated with book prizes and certificates in recognition of their thoughtful arguments, confidence and active participation. The winners were felicitated by Lt Gen Madan Raj Pandey, AVSM, SM, VSM, GOC 14 Corps; Lt Gen Satish Dua, PVSM, UYSM, SM, VSM (Retd); Dr Phuntsog Angmo; Swati Pande, Zonal President, AWWA; Garima Mehta, Chairperson, Trishul FWO; Lt Gen D. P. Pandey, PVSM, UYSM, AVSM, VSM (Retd); Ashok Dhankar, National Book Trust (NBT); and Maj Gen Sachin Mehta, VSM, GOC 3 Infantry Division.

A major attraction of the day was the opening of the “Know Your Army” Weapons and Equipment Display, providing visitors with an opportunity to gain a closer understanding of the equipment, preparedness and technological capabilities of the Indian Armed Forces. The display added an experiential dimension to the festival’s focus on military history and contemporary defence preparedness.

The Ladakh Lit Fest 2026 was also inaugurated as part of the ongoing Ladakh Book Festival, bringing together authors, scholars, military veterans, artists, students and literature enthusiasts under the theme “Valour and Wisdom.”

In his inaugural address, Lt Gen Madan Raj Pandey, General Officer Commanding, 14 Corps, highlighted the significance of military history and Ladakh’s enduring place in India’s defence heritage.

He said military history was not merely a record of dates and battles, but a repository of lessons in leadership, endurance, strategic thinking, innovation and sacrifice.

Reflecting on Ladakh’s military legacy, Lt Gen Pandey recalled the courage displayed at Rezang La and Chushul, as well as the sacrifices made during the Kargil conflict.

He also underlined the importance of books and reading in shaping young minds, noting that literature could broaden perspectives, ignite imagination and inspire young people to become responsible citizens. He further highlighted the Indian Army’s enduring bond with Ladakh and its commitment to education, youth empowerment, cultural preservation and community development.

A key literary session, “Life Lessons from the Battlefield,” was led by Lt Gen Satish Dua (Retd). Drawing from his military experience, he spoke about leadership, resilience, decision-making, courage, teamwork and service to the nation.

“The lessons of the battlefield go far beyond victory and defeat. They teach us leadership, courage, resilience, teamwork and the ability to remain steadfast in adversity. These are values that can guide our young people in their own lives and in building a stronger nation,” said Lt Gen Satish Dua (Retd).

The festival also featured reflections on heritage, memory and storytelling by Dr Phuntsog Wangmo, who spoke about the role of books in preserving stories and experiences that shape communities.

“Books give us a powerful way to preserve our heritage, document our history and ensure that these stories continue to inspire new generations. Growing up as a soldier’s daughter, I saw the military as a way of life, and it was the stories of courage, sacrifice, service and resilience that stayed with me. It is through such stories that we truly understand our history,” said Dr Phuntsog Wangmo.

The day concluded with a cultural and musical programme celebrating Ladakh’s heritage alongside literature, history and national service. The Ladakh Scouts Regimental Centre presented a special band performance, creating a patriotic atmosphere and drawing enthusiastic participation from the audience.