Chief Minister Bhajan Lal Sharma officially opened the much-anticipated 'Know Your Army' exhibition in Jaipur on Thursday, showcasing a range of modern defence equipment. The event, held at the Bhawani Niketan Shiksha Samiti campus on Sikar Road, was attended by senior military officials but was marred by confusion as members of the public who arrived to visit were turned away.
Inauguration and High-Profile Attendance
The inauguration ceremony saw the presence of Lt Gen Manjinder Singh, the Army Commander of the Sapta Shakti Command, alongside other senior officers from the command. Chief Minister Sharma, during the opening, emphasized the exhibition's role in bridging the gap between citizens and the armed forces. He stated that the display would help the public understand the constant vigilance and sacrifice of the Indian Army.
The exhibition features an impressive array of military hardware, including modern weapon systems, artillery, air defence assets, drones, and advanced communication gear. Interactive stalls and soldier engagement zones have been set up to foster a closer civil-military connection, allowing for a more immersive experience.
Public Confusion Leads to Disappointment
Despite the fanfare, Thursday turned into a day of frustration for many Jaipur residents. Although the exhibition was scheduled to open to the public on Friday, a lack of clear information led to large crowds gathering at the venue on the inaugural day itself. Visitors, who had travelled significant distances, were disappointed to learn they would not be allowed entry.
Ajay Hingonia, a resident of Narayan Vihar, expressed his dismay, noting that his son was excited to see the display. They had chosen to visit on the first day to avoid weekend crowds but were denied access. Many visitors reported that advertisements for the event did not specify timings or mention the requirement of entry passes, which became apparent only upon arrival.
Visitor Accounts and Logistical Hurdles
The confusion was widespread. A 70-year-old woman from Malviya Nagar mentioned she was told to return on Friday at 9:30 am with an Aadhaar Card to generate an entry pass on the spot. She expressed a preference for attending the Army Day parade instead, given the inconvenience.
In a particularly telling incident, a family of twelve, including nine children from Jhotwara, had to return home disappointed. Tina Natani, who was with her family, said they had been led to believe the exhibition was open to all and did not carry any identification documents. They were informed that passes would only be issued on Friday morning at the venue.
The situation highlights a gap in communication regarding the event's logistics. While the exhibition aims to celebrate military might and foster public engagement, the initial experience for many eager citizens was one of confusion and unmet expectations. The organisers are likely to address these issues as the exhibition opens fully to the public on the following days.
