Srinagar, Nov 17: Army on Thursday organized an ex-servicemen rally at Shalateng Garrison which attracted over 300 participants and their dependents from north Kashmir area.
“On the occasion of the 50th anniversary of India’s definitive victory over Pakistan in the 1971 war, the Ex-Servicemen’s rally kicked off with wreath laying ceremony at the War Memorial, paying respects to our brave soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The Ex-Servicemen who stood shoulder to shoulder with their fallen brothers paid the highest respect to their indomitable courage, loyalty and sacrifice,” PRO (Defence) said in a statement..
GOC Counter Insurgency Force (Kilo), was present on the occasion to interact with the Ex-Servicemen and their dependents. The General officer met a 92-year-old veteran Col (Retd) Sheetal Singh, who is the first commissioned officer of the J&K State Forces. Col (Retd) Sheetal Singh fought against Pakistan Army in 1965, while holding defences in Mehnder in Poonch District. Col (Retd) Sheetal Singh commanded 2 JAK RIF. Father of the present GOC Kilo Force also commanded 2 JAK RIF in 1978.
The rally lived up to its motto of “Sampark – Swasthya – Sahuliyat” by reaching out to a large number of veterans and families and resolving their problems regarding various issues related to documentation, pension, banking, welfare schemes, medical and Aadhar card issues, the PRO said, adding that a number of stalls were established to cater for various aspects of Ex Servicemen viz Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, Resettlement, Sainik Boards, Helpline, Record Offices, State Bank of India, UIADI, etc. The rally provided a joint forum for the veterans and their families to interact with both military and civil Agencies and resolve their pending issues.
While addressing the rally, the GOC once again pledged Indian Army’s solidarity with its retired fraternity and assured the gathering that the government and Army are sensitive to their needs and would take every step to ensure that the Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their families are cared for and looked after well. GOC also reiterated Army’s goal of providing quality healthcare, dignity and problem-resolution to Veterans, Veer Naris and Widows of the soldiers.
