Governor Gurmit Singh attends Ex-Servicemen’s mega rally
Garhwal Post Bureau
DEHRADUN, 11 Oct: Governor Lieutenant General Gurmit Singh (Retd) participated in the “Devbhoomi Mega Ex-Servicemen Rally” organised at Jaswant Singh Ground, Garhi Cantonment here on Saturday. The event witnessed the presence of thousands of ex-servicemen and Veer Naris, along with Cabinet Minister for Soldier Welfare Ganesh Joshi and Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan.
During the rally, organised by Uttarakhand Sub Area, the Governor and other dignitaries distributed scooters to 14 specially-abled ex-servicemen through the War Wounded Foundation. Additionally, 20 Veer Naris and distinguished ex-servicemen were honoured for their exceptional contributions. The Department of Soldier Welfare also provided golf carts to the Uttarakhand Sub Area. These golf carts have been funded through UPNL (Uttarakhand Purv Sainik Kalyan Nigam Limited), keeping in mind the convenience of ex-servicemen.
Calling the occasion “historic,” the Governor said that the gathering of such a large number of ex-servicemen was a matter of great pride. He stated that the sacrifice, discipline and patriotism of ex-servicemen are a priceless inspiration for society. The values and discipline they have lived by will guide future generations. He added that it is our duty to always remember their contribution and to inspire every section of society with the spirit of “Nation First,” for it is this spirit that will make India a Vishwaguru.
Encouraging the Veer Naris, the Governor urged them to associate with self-help groups to strengthen their financial independence and become self-reliant. He also called upon ex-servicemen to share their leadership skills, experience, discipline and vision with society, so that the younger generation may be guided and inspired. The Governor informed that a grievance redressal officer has been appointed at Raj Bhavan specifically to look into the concerns of ex-servicemen and that the doors of Raj Bhavan are always open for them.
Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, in his address, lauded the contribution of ex-servicemen to nation-building and said that Uttarakhand, known as the “Land of the Brave,” has brought glory to the nation in every war and crisis. He stated that the Indian Armed Forces are rapidly advancing towards modern warfare systems and technology. “We are a peace-loving nation,” he said, “but we will not tolerate any threat to our sovereignty.” Appreciating the ex-servicemen, he said that they are the vigilant eyes that continue to ensure the nation’s security. He urged the youth to draw inspiration from their selfless service and dedication to the country.
The CDS announced that an Integrated Veterans’ Wellness and Service Centre will be established at Dehradun Military Station. This centre will be fully technology-driven and dedicated to the welfare of ex-servicemen. He expressed confidence that the Uttarakhand Sub Area Headquarters would complete the project within the stipulated time.
On this occasion, Soldier Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi stated that the government is always committed to the welfare of serving and retired soldiers.
The rally also saw the participation of GOC-in-C Central Command Lt Gen Anindya Sengupta, GOC Uttar Bharat Area Lt Gen DG Mishra, GOC Uttarakhand Sub Area Maj Gen MPS Gill, President of the War Wounded Foundation Lt Gen Asit Mistri (Retd), Brigadier Harcharan Singh (Retd), along with several senior officers and a large number of ex-servicemen. A job fair with 21 companies, banking facilities, stalls showcasing state government schemes, and a free medical camp were also organised during the event.
