Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 14: Veterans Day was celebrated with pride and reverence across various regions of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh, marking the 9th anniversary of this important occasion dedicated to honouring the valiant sacrifices and contributions of retired armed forces personnel.
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The day serves as a tribute to Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Indian Army Chief, whose retirement on January 14, 1953, marked the beginning of a new chapter in India’s military history.
As part of the celebration, a rally was taken out in Akhnoor, where Ex-Servicemen, led by S Lakhbir Singh Sohal submitted memorandums to the Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, LG Manoj Sinha, and Chief Minister Omar Abdullah, raising their concerns. The memorandums were assured attention, with promises to resolve veterans’ issues promptly.
In Leh, the 9th Tri-Services Armed Forces Veterans Day was marked with a grand ceremony, graced by Lt Governor of Ladakh, Dr BD Mishra, and Lieutenant General Hitesh Bhalla.
The event, which saw the participation of around 650 veterans, included a wreath-laying ceremony at the Hall of Fame to honour the region’s fallen heroes.
Help desks were set up to address veterans’ issues, and seven veterans were recognized for their distinguished service to society.
Celebrations also took place at ten remote locations across Ladakh, reaffirming the Indian Army’s bond with its veterans.
In Kishtwar, the 9th Veterans’ Day celebration was held under the aegis of the ‘High Five’ Sector.
The event saw over 250 ex-servicemen (ESM), Veer Matas, Veer Naris, and widows of fallen soldiers gathering for a series of events, including a medical camp offering free healthcare, a Grievance Cell for addressing veterans’ concerns, and stalls for CSD and non-CSD goods.
Brigadier JBS Rathi, Commander High Five Sector, emphasized the eternal connection between the Army and its veterans, paying tribute to the supreme sacrifices made by their loved ones.
In Rajouri, Major General Kaushik Mukherjee, General Officer Commanding of the Ace of Spade Division, led a vibrant celebration that included interactive sessions with veterans and tribute to their sacrifices.
Major General Mukherjee highlighted the historical importance of the day and spoke of the deep connection between soldiers and their motherland, emphasizing the dedication of the armed forces in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
Meanwhile, in Handwara, the Indian Army organized an Ex-Servicemen’s Rally at Pohrupet to honour Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris, and Veer Matas.
The rally included various assistance booths and a medical camp set up by the Government Medical College (GMC) to provide free consultations.
Representatives from local Government departments were present to offer guidance on farming techniques and rural livelihood schemes, while the ZSWO Kupwara and other officials were on hand to address veterans’ grievances.
The collective celebrations in these regions underscored the Indian Army’s dedication to supporting its veterans, acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the nation’s security and welfare.
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