Kupwara :An Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rally was organised at Tangdhar under the aegis of Shakti Vijay Brigade to strengthen outreach, address grievances, and enhance awareness about welfare schemes available for veterans, Veer Naris, widows, and their dependents.
The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from the veteran community, with 154 Ex-Servicemen, 4 Veer Naris, and 25 widows attending the event.
Representatives from the Veterans Cell, ECHS Baramulla, JAK LI Record Office, JAK RIF Record Office, Civil Administration, Tehsil Office, District Social Welfare Office, DPDO, Forest Department, Police Department, Employment Department, State Bank of India, J&K Bank, Block Development Office, and Zonal Education Office participated in the rally. They interacted with attendees, addressed grievances, and provided guidance on welfare initiatives and government schemes.
Participants paid tribute to the sacrifices and invaluable contributions of the veteran community and reaffirmed their commitment to the welfare of Ex-Servicemen and their families. Key welfare initiatives highlighted during the event included ESM rallies, Veer Nari meets, ECHS clinical meets, artificial limb camps, outreach programmes for Veer Mata-Pita, and the ongoing SPARSH data migration drive.
The gathering was also informed about recent welfare measures, including the empanelment of additional hospitals under the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) in Kashmir to improve healthcare access for veterans and their dependents. Attendees were encouraged to actively avail benefits under various government and Army welfare schemes and seek timely redressal of grievances.
Veterans were urged to continue contributing to nation-building by mentoring the younger generation, spreading awareness against drug abuse, and promoting peace, harmony, and social responsibility.
As part of the event, 25 widows, 4 Veer Naris, and 10 meritorious students from ESM families excelling in academics and extracurricular activities were awarded scholarships by Mrs Sheela Yadav, wife of Brig Dharmendra Yadav, SM, Station Commander Tangdhar. Additionally, five distinguished Ex-Servicemen were felicitated for their notable contributions to nation-building and community development.
Addressing the gathering, Dharmendra Yadav reiterated the Indian Army’s commitment to the welfare of Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris, and their dependents. He assured all possible assistance in addressing their concerns and urged veterans to guide the youth, combat drug abuse, foster social harmony, and remain vigilant against misinformation and anti-national influences.
The rally concluded with an interactive session between the Station Commander and the veterans, followed by a group photograph commemorating the enduring bond of camaraderie between the veteran fraternity and serving personnel.
The event reinforced the Indian Army’s commitment to ensuring the welfare, dignity, and continued engagement of veterans in nation-building.
