India, Aug. 21 -- Every morning, as we sip our tea, scroll through our phones, or hurry to work, we rarely pause to think about the invisible shield that makes such ordinary moments possible. That shield is our freedom-and it is not free. It is paid for in vigilance, sleepless nights, separation from loved ones, and, far too often, the ultimate sacrifice.

Our defence forces stand as the first and last line between peace and chaos. Whether it's a soldier braving sub-zero nights at Siachen, a sailor navigating hostile seas, or an airman watching over our skies, their lives are defined by readiness. They give up family celebrations, birthdays, and anniversaries to guard a country that often sleeps in comfort, unaware of the dangers lurking ...