Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami attended the 75th anniversary celebration of the All India Gorkha Ex-Servicemen Welfare Association (AIGEWA) on Wednesday at Swargiya Harbans Kapoor Memorial Auditorium, Garhi Cantt, where he unveiled a statue of Barrister Ari Bahadur Gurung and released the association’s souvenir publication.
CM Dhami said that Barrister Ari Bahadur Gurung was not only a Member of Parliament but also played an important role in the drafting of the Indian Constitution. He described the event as a celebration of the courage, sacrifice and patriotic legacy of Gorkha soldiers, whose valour, he stated, is recognized worldwide. He added that the honour of All-India status granted to AIGEWA reflects national respect for the community’s service and contribution.
The Chief Minister praised the association for 75 years of service marked by transparency, dedication and support to thousands of retired Gorkha soldiers, Veer Naris and dependents across India. He noted that AIGEWA has been running free vocational training programs for youth from various communities across the country.
Highlighting the unmatched bravery of Gorkha fighters, he said history proves that “no enemy could ever stand where Gorkhas stood.” The khukuri, he added, symbolizes not just a weapon, but a promise to defend the motherland. He paid tribute to heroes such as Amar Veer Major Durga Mall, Param Vir Chakra awardee Dhan Singh Thapa, and Ashok Chakra recipient Nar Bahadur Thapa, whose sacrifices remain unforgettable.
CM Dhami emphasized that the Gorkha community has played a crucial role not only in national security but also in the development of Uttarakhand through discipline and hard work. The state government, he assured, deeply respects their sacrifices and contribution.
Sainik Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi also praised the community for their fearless service in every conflict and their significant role in the state’s growth.
The event was attended by MLA Savita Kapoor, Secretary of Central Soldiers Welfare Board Brigadier DS Baseda, AIGEWA President Colonel RS Kshetri, Gorkhali Sudhar Sabha President Padam Singh Thapa and several retired senior officers.
