Pune: In the village of Military Apshinge, patriotism isn’t just a sentiment—it is a way of life. Recognising this unique legacy, the state govt has sanctioned Rs1.15 crore to build a grand military memorial. The project is a cornerstone of the state’s plan to develop the village as its first “military tourism” destination.The village, situated in the Satara district, boasts a history where every home is a gateway to the frontlines. Its men have fought in the trenches of the World Wars and protected India’s borders in the decades since. The new memorial will serve as a tribute to these generations of service, with the names of every serviceman etched into its walls.“Most war memorials tell stories through galleries. Here, the stories are told by the people themselves,” says Lt Col Satish Hange (retd). The project envisions a destination where tourists don’t just look at monuments but live alongside veteran families, hearing personal accounts of war and service.For sarpanch Tushar Nikam, the project is a beacon for the future. “It will inspire young people to continue the tradition of joining the armed forces,” he said. With the groundbreaking ceremony completed on Sunday, the village is set to become a rare landmark on India’s map—a place where the history of the nation’s defense is a living, breathing experience.
