NewZNew (Khasa/Amritsar – Kulbir Singh Kalsi) : An Ex-Servicemen Rally was organized at New Amritsar Military Station Khasa by Panther Division under the aegis of Vajra Corps(Defenders of Punjab), to recognize the selfless service of Ex-servicemen and Veer Naris on 07 Dec 14. Lt Gen KJ Singh General Officer Commanding-in-Chief was the chief guest on the occasion. In spite of inclement weather and distance involved, the rally witnessed unprecedented turn out of nearly 10,000 Ex-servicemen, Veer Naris and their families. Senior officers of the Army & State Govt officials were also present on the occasion. Veterans rally was primarily focused on reaching out to the Ex-servicemen settled in far flunged areas and address their grievances. The aim of the Rally was also to spread awareness about various welfare schemes being run by Army for welfare of its Veterans. Suitable opportunity was provided to all Veterans and Veer Naris to interact with senior officials of Indian Army.
Lt Gen KJ Singh addressed Ex-Servicemen and Veer Naris gathered on the occasion. While addressing the rally he appreciated the services and sacrifices of Army Veterans and Veer Naris. The Gen Officer also pointed out that the state of Punjab has always been in the lead to sacrifice its sons for the defence of the Nation. He further emphasized that the welfare of our Veterans is our prime responsibility and also assured that the well being and comfort of all those who have given precious years of their life to Army will be looked after first, always and everytime. He also appreciated the hard work of Vajra Corps, Panther Division and Dograi Brigade to organize such a mega event. Lt Gen KJ Singh brought out that the Army will give its full effort in reaching out the Veterans settled in far flunged areas.
Various stalls pertaining of ECHS medical facilities, Army Placement Node and Ex-Servicemen helpline service were organized under one roof to address the grievances of Veterans. Many stalls giving information about welfare schemes were established where all Veterans could gather first hand information about various welfare schemes being run by Veteran Cells at Army Headquarters. The participation of the State Govt department was also noteworthy. The Agriculture, Fisheries, Animal Husbandry departments, Postal Services and employment Exchange sent their representatives, who established their own stalls and created awareness providing vital information to the much needed Ex-Servicemen and their families.
The Army Veterans and Veer Naris expressed their gratitude towards Army for organizing such a mega event and providing creative platform for all of them to settle down their grievances. Veter ans also appreciated the efforts of Army authorities executing various welfare related schemes for them. Apart from interaction with senior Army officials, various entertainment programmes were organized by Army for the Veterans.