Excelsior Correspondent
![GOC-in-C Northern Command, Lt Gen K T Parnaik interacting with Ex-servicemen and their families during a camp at Udhampur on Tuesday.](http://www.dailyexcelsior.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/page3-310-150x150.jpg)
UDHAMPUR, Oct 23: Assuring full support from the Army to the retired defence personnel and their families, General Officer Commanding- in- Chief, Northern Command, Lt Gen K T Parnaik today appealed the civil administration to render all possible help to the ex-servicemen in resolving their issues.
Addressing an ex-servicemen rally at the Northern Command headquarters here today, Lt Gen Parnaik, said that 2012 has been declared as `Year of Veterans’. He conveyed gratitude of the nation and armed forces to the ex-servicemen and `Veer Naris’ for their bravery and sacrifices. The Army Commander reiterated the Army’s commitment of providing all possible help to the ESM and martyrs’ families and timely reddressal of their grievances.
The Army Commander further said that assistance to the ex-servicemen and `Veer Naris’ was priority for the Army and maximum measures have been initiated for their post-retirement rehabilitation and comfort. He further appealed to the civil administration to guide and help the ex-servicemen and their families in finding speedy solution to their problems. He asked the ESM and `Veer Naris’ to contact nearby Army units in their respective areas in case of any immediate assistance.
The rally for the Army veterans and their families was conducted under the aegis of HQ Northern Command and the purpose was to alleviate problems of the retired defence personnel and their families besides Veer Naris. Besides, Army Commander, the president Family Welfare Organisation (NC), Anagha Parnaik also intracted with the ex-servicemen and Veer Naris. GOC 71 Sub Area, Maj Gen A K Sehgal and Brig R S Langeh, secretary State Sainik Welfare Board were also present. It was attended by over 2000 ESM and nearly 400 Veer Naris. A medical camp was also arranged for the visitors to the camp where free tests were performed and ailing ESM and others examined by a team of Army doctors. CSD and other facilities were also provided on the spot.
Defence, Central and State officials also participated in the rally. DIG Udhampur-Reasi, DC and SSP Udhampur were also present besides Zila Sainik Board officials.