APS adopts Ferozepur Fort to facilitate research and academic studies
Indian Army reopens historic Ferozepur Fort to public after over two centuries, Maj Gen Manral leads formal inauguration ceremony
Ferozepur, June 1, 2025: 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.
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 defence network, the fort holds enduring tales of courage and resistance and also features prominently in narratives of the First War of Independence in 1857.
Ferozepur holds a special place in India’s freedom movement, having produced numerous martyrs and revolutionaries who bravely resisted colonial rule. The fort and its surroundings have borne witness to pivotal historical events, continuing to symbolise national pride and sacrifice.
A formal inauguration ceremony was held today, Sunday, June 1, 2025, at the fort. The event was graced by Maj Gen RS Manral, SM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Golden Arrow Division, along with Brig 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, Maj Gen Manral emphasised 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 to conduct 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.
The reopening of Ferozepur Fort not only reconnects the region with its storied past but also reaffirms its identity as a symbol of valour, resilience, and national pride, firmly placing it on Punjab’s cultural and heritage tourism map.
The Indian Army looks forward to the visitors to come in large numbers, witness this historical site and contribute towards maintaining its heritage.