RAJOURI, Jan 14 : Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha on Wednesday paid solemn tribute to ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, and their families at a commemorative event held here at the Rajouri Air Landing Ground (ALG), marking Armed Forces Veterans Day.
Addressing a large gathering of veterans and citizens, Lieutenant Governor as per news agency Kashmir News Service (KNS) expressed the nation’s profound gratitude to the veterans and serving soldiers for placing the safety of the country above their own.
“Our Armed Forces veterans are the embodiment of living history. Their sacrifices have not only safeguarded our freedom but have also shaped the destiny of our great nation,” stated Sinha.
He emphasized that the service of armed forces personnel constitutes a lifelong commitment, enduring long after their military careers conclude and uniforms are retired. “Their courage extends beyond the battlefield, reflected in their enduring role in establishing peace and ensuring national progress,” he added.
Saluting the resilience and patriotism of the soldiers, the Lieutenant Governor described their courage and sacrifice as the bedrock of the nation’s security.
“The sacrifices of our soldiers often remain unseen. While the nation sleeps in peace, they stand vigilant. While families celebrate festivals together, our soldiers guard the frontiers, far from their homes. They do not merely speak of sacrifice; they live it every moment,” Sinha said.
On the occasion, the Lieutenant Governor inaugurated a “Wall of Fame” and launched a dedicated police helpline service for veterans. He reiterated the government’s steadfast commitment, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, to the welfare of veterans and their families.
“Veterans are living role models for our youth, guiding the nation with character, timeless values, and selfless service. From securing the nation to serving society, they continue to shape India’s future. It is my commitment to honour their service through sustained care. We are dedicated not only to the well-being of veterans’ families but also to ensuring a life of dignity for those who have served and sacrificed,” he affirmed.
The Lieutenant Governor also paid homage to Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, and honoured the memory of Second Lieutenant Ram Raghoba Rane, Brigadier Mohammad Usman, Naik Jadunath Singh, and the bravehearts of Rajouri.
A mega Ex-Servicemen Rally was organized as part of the event. Assistive devices, including motorized wheelchairs, retrofitted scooters, and other mobility aids, were distributed to veterans and Veer Naris.
The event was attended by Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Northern Command; Lt Gen P.K. Mishra, GOC White Knight Corps (16 Corps); Maj Gen Kaushik Mukherjee, GOC 25 Inf Division; and Brig. Pankaj Chib (Retd), Director of the Sainik Welfare Department, along with veterans, Veer Naris, prominent citizens, and members of the public. (KNS)
