Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Nov 17: A veterans rally-cum-fauji mela was organised by Rashtriya Rifles Battalion at Samote (Budhal), today to alleviate the problems being faced by the local veterans and provide all necessary assistance to resolve them.
The Rally organised under the aegis of Counter insurgency Force (Uniform), was inaugurated by Commander, Rashtriya Rifles Sector, who interacted with the veterans and assured them all possible assistance from the Army.
About 3000 veterans and locals attended the event. During the event, various cultural programme were presented by the children from local schools, which enthralled the audience.
The highlight of the function was the ‘Army Dog Show’ displayed by the Army Dog of the Rashtriya Rifles. Numerous Government and commercial stalls catering for the awareness and basic needs of the locals were established to include CSD counter, Medical and Veterinary Assistance Counter, Ex-servicemen Grievances Cell, ECHS Help Line, Employment and Counselling Centre, Youth Employment and Guidance Node Enclosure, Recruitment Information Centre, Handicraft Mela, Banking Awareness Enclosure, etc.
The event was followed by an equipment display, where the Army showcased plethora of the latest weapons and equipments for the local populace.
Officer-In-Charge of Zila sainik Welfare Board apprised the veterans about various welfare schemes introduced by both Central and State Government.
The Commander, Mahore sector, during his address assured all possible assistance for weeding out militancy and enhancing the peace and tranquility in the area. Later he presented gifts like sewing machines, pressure cookers, blankets, sweaters and solar lights to widows, poor ladies, physically challenged persons and students.