Jammu, Oct 30 (KNO): The Indian Army on Friday organised an ex-servicemen rally at Miran Sahib in Jammu, witnessing participation of over 1,300 veterans and their family members, while 45 Veer Naris, Veer Matas and gallantry awardees were felicitated during the event.
In a statement issued to the news agency—Kashmir News Observer (KNO), a spokesperson said the Tiger Division conducted the large-scale Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rally, reaffirming its commitment towards the welfare and wellbeing of veterans and their families. Lt Gen Akaash Johar, AVSM, GOC Rising Star Corps, attended the event as the Chief Guest.
He said the rally witnessed participation of over 1,300 ex-servicemen and their family members, including Veer Naris, Veer Matas, gallantry awardees and battle casualty cases.
The event provided a platform for veterans to reconnect with the Indian Army and interact with representatives of various agencies involved in addressing their welfare and service-related issues.
The spokesperson said 45 Veer Naris, Veer Matas and gallantry awardees were felicitated in recognition of their sacrifices, courage and distinguished service to the nation.
He said dedicated stalls and facilities were set up for ex-servicemen and their families to provide assistance, information and welfare services under one roof. These included stalls of the Army Welfare Placement Organisation, Directorate of Indian Army Veterans, Naman Centre, PCDA Jammu, Directorate General Resettlement North, Records, Army Recruiting Office, Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, Veteran Sahayta Kendra, banks and Unit Run Canteen.
Stalls of various J&K departments and organisations, including Social Welfare, Industries, SKUAST, National Career Service, Mission Shakti and Yuva, were also set up. A cultural programme, weapon display and Pipe Band performance were also organised as part of the rally.
The spokesperson said the Directorate of Indian Army Veterans (DIAV), War Wounded Foundation (WWF), Framjee Cawasjee Institute, Self Less Service Society and Rotary Club Mumbai provided nine modified scooters, six motorised wheelchairs, ten wheelchairs, five hearing aids, five walking sticks and financial assistance to beneficiaries as a tribute to their service and sacrifices.
A medical camp was also organised to provide medical support to veterans.
The event further strengthened the bond between serving personnel, veterans and their families, while providing an avenue to address their concerns in a coordinated manner. The rally underscored the Indian Army's ethos of “Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier” and reaffirmed that the service and sacrifices of veterans remain an integral part of its legacy—(KNO)