Jammu/ New Delhi, Jan 14, ANB: The celebrations at Akhnoor were graced by the Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, who presided over the event, accompanied by the Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha, and the Chief Minister of J&K; Chief of Defence Staff, General Anil Chuahan and General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Northern Command, Lieutenant General MV Suchindra Kumar.
According to the Associated News Bureau, key activities included the distribution of motorised scooters and wheelchairs to disabled veterans, the inauguration of the Akhnoor Heritage Museum by the Raksha Mantri, and the unfurling of a 30-metre-high National Flag.
The Raksha Mantri also interacted with veterans, listening to their experiences and concerns, adding a heartfelt touch to the occasion. More than 40 Stalls/ Help Desks of various Records Offices, Defence and Government Welfare Organisations, Banks and Employment Agencies were established at the venue for in-situ grievance redressal and awareness. In addition, the "Sammaan" (Army), "Vayu Samvedna" (Air Force), and "Sagar Samvad" (Navy) magazines were also released by Shri Rajnath Singh.
Pune:
The event was graced by Chief of the Army Staff, General Upendra Dwivedi, accompanied by General Officer Commanding-in-Chief Southern Command, Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth. On the first day of his visit, the COAS, accompanied by Sunita Dwivedi, President of the Army Wives Welfare Association, visited the Artificial Limb Centre, inaugurating a state-of-the-art Upper Limb Training Lab and interacting with patients.
He also attended the Veterans Lunch organised for the 9th Armed Forces Veterans Day, which saw the participation of approximately 1,300 veterans from Maharashtra.
During the event, the COAS felicitated five distinguished veteran achievers and eight Veer Naris, including Veer Matas and Veer Pitas, and unveiled the "Samman" magazine dedicated to veterans' welfare. General Dwivedi commended the veterans for their invaluable contributions and highlighted initiatives like VSK+ and Naman Kendras to support them. Reflecting the Army's commitment to its veterans, he emphasised their pivotal role in inspiring future generations and contributing to the nation’s progress.
New Delhi
The event at New Delhi commenced with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the National War Memorial to honour the sacrifices of fallen heroes. This was followed by a grand rally at the prestigious Manekshaw Centre, attended by the Chief of Air Staff, Vice Chief of Army Staff, Vice Chief of Naval Staff, Chief of Integrated Defence Staff to Chairman Chiefs of Staff Committee, Joint Secretary DESW, and Presidents of government-recognised veteran organisations, along with 2,500 veterans. Hero Moto Corp donated seven retrofitted scooters to serving disabled soldiers and veterans, while 40 stalls, including Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, PCDA (P), DGAFMS, and various banks, provided welfare-related information and support. The event also saw the unveiling of the magazines "Sammaan" (Army), "Vayu Samvedna" (Air Force), and "Sagar Samvad" (Navy).
Bengdubi
The Indian Army hosted a grand Veteran Rally at Bengdubi Military Station, graced by Shantanu Thakur, Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping, and Waterways, as the Chief Guest.
The event was attended by senior military officials, including Lieutenant General Zubin A Minwalla, General Officer Commanding, Trishakti Corps, and witnessed the participation of approximately 2,000 veterans, Veer Naris, and their families. Key activities included seamless registration, interactive sessions to address challenges faced by veterans and Veer Naris, welfare guidance on pension and health schemes, skill development initiatives by the Army Placement Node (APN), and the felicitation of Gallantry Award winners and Veer Naris.
Jaipur
The event at Jaipur was graced by the Governor of Rajasthan, Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde, along with General Officer Commanding-in-Chief South Western Command, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh. The occasion included a solemn wreath-laying ceremony, followed by the felicitation ceremony of veterans and Veer Naris for their exemplary service and sacrifice. The event concluded with a Sainik Samman Bhoj, celebrating the camaraderie and acknowledging contributions of the veterans and their families.
Bareilly
The event at Bareilly was led by the Secretary of DESW, Dr Niten Chandra, along with Chief of Staff, Uttar Bharat Area, Major General Rajinder Rai. The event witnessed the participation of approximately 1,500 veterans. Key highlights included the acknowledgment of contributions by Veer Naris and prominent veterans, whose sacrifices and services were honoured, reflecting the nation’s deep gratitude and respect for its heroes.
The Veterans Day celebrations were also conducted at other military stations pan India including Bengaluru, Nagpur, Mumbai and Visakhapatnam under the aegis of Indian Navy and Indian Air Force. The celebrations hold profound significance, serving as a poignant reminder of the nation’s unwavering respect and gratitude towards its veterans. It is a day dedicated to honouring their sacrifices and acknowledging their continued contributions to society. By fostering a sense of camaraderie and addressing their welfare needs, Veterans Day underscores the commitment of the Armed Forces and the government to uphold the dignity and well-being of those who have selflessly served the nation. (ANB)
