Srinagar, Jan 14: The Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JAK LI) Regimental Centre, under the aegis of Chinar Corps, hosted the 9th Armed Forces Veterans Day with great reverence on Sunday.
The event commemorates the superannuation of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, and celebrates the invaluable service and sacrifices of the nation’s veterans.
The ceremony was attended by Maj Gen Dhananjay Joshi, VSM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) V Force, and Brig Ved Beniwal, Commandant of the JAKLI Regimental Centre, along with other senior officials, veterans, Veer Matas, Veer Naris, and gallantry awardees. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh addressed the gathering through video conferencing from Akhnoor, underlining the government’s commitment to the welfare of armed forces veterans and their families.
Despite adverse weather conditions, the event witnessed the spirited participation of 143 veterans, 40 Veer Matas/Veer Naris, and two wards of war heroes/veterans, demonstrating the enduring determination and resilience of the armed forces fraternity.
The event aimed not only to honour the service of veterans but also to provide a platform for addressing their welfare concerns. Information on various central and state government welfare schemes was shared, and immediate support was facilitated through help desks and stalls set up by organizations such as ECHS, AWPO, DZR(NC), DPDO, Medical Camp, Zila Sainik Welfare Board, JAK LI Records, and local banks.
In his address, Maj Gen Dhananjay Joshi expressed heartfelt gratitude to the veterans and their families for their service to the nation. He assured them of the Army’s unwavering support and commitment to resolving their grievances and enhancing their quality of life.
The celebration reinforced the Army’s dedication to its veterans, ensuring their sacrifices and contributions remain an integral part of the nation’s legacy.
