General Chauhan & governor attend ex-servicemen rally in Dehradun
PIONEER EDGE NEWS SERVICE/ Dehradun
Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan, stressing India’s peaceful intent said, “While we are a peace loving nation, we shall never tolerate any threat to our sovereignty.”
Addressing the Devbhoomi Mega Veterans rally at Jaswant Singh Ground, Garhi Cantonment here on Saturday the CDS said that Uttarakhand, known as the ‘Land of the Brave’ has always brought pride to the nation through the courage and valour of its soldiers in every conflict and crisis. He emphasised that the Indian armed forces are rapidly adopting modern warfare strategies and cutting edge technologies.
General Chauhan praised the unwavering spirit, selfless service and deep sense of duty among the veterans, urging the youth to draw inspiration from their legacy. He also announced the upcoming establishment of an Integrated Veterans Wellness and Seva Kendra at Dehradun Military Station for the welfare of veterans.
Governor lieutenant general (retd) Gurmit Singh said that the armed forces veterans are national asset who have given invaluable contribution in nation building. Expressing grief over the recent natural disaster in Dharali, the governor remembered the brave soldiers of the 14 Rajputana Rifles who lost their lives in the disaster. Applauding the indomitable spirit and high morale of the Indian Army, Singh highlighted the coordinated efforts of the Indian Army and the civil administration which led to the swift restoration of normalcy in the affected areas.
The governor also expressed gratitude to the veterans of the Army, Navy and Air Force from Uttarakhand, praising their patriotism, courage and continued commitment to nation building. He paid homage to all martyrs who sacrificed their lives in service of the country. Appreciating the efforts of War Wounded Foundation, led by lieutenant general (retd) Asit Mistry and brigadier (retd) Harcharan Singh for providing motorised scooters to 14 disabled veterans the governor also honoured 20 Veer Naris (war widows), thanking them for their sacrifice and service. He called upon all veterans to remain active contributors in building a Viksit Bharat serving as an inspiration to society.
Soldier Welfare minister Ganesh Joshi, general officer commanding in chief, Central Command, Lieutenant General Anindya Sengupta, GoC Uttar Bharat area Lieutenant General DG Mishra, GOC Uttarakhand Sub Area Major General MPS Gill and others were present on the occasion.
A large number of ex-servicemen participated in the rally, which featured a job fair by 21 companies, banking and government scheme awareness stalls and free medical camps for the benefit of ex-servicemen and their families.
