Diplomat Correspondent
Poonch: DD, Post Operation Sindoor, for the first time near the Line of Control (LOC), the Ex-Servicemen Rally and Mega Veterans Outreach Program was organized by the Krishna Ghati Brigade of the Indian Army at the Balnoi Base on 06 July 2025.
The rally brought together 400 veterans, including Veer Naris, Veer Matas, and widows, to honour their selfless service and sacrifices. The event strengthened the camaraderie of the armed forces community and addressed key welfare issues.
Numerous stalls and help desks from various welfare agencies and organizations, such as the ESM Help Desk, Grievance Cell, Artificial Limb support, Art of Living, Financial Planning, Medical Check-up, Dental Check-up, Veterinary Facility, CSD Canteen, ECHS Facility, and provisions for four-wheelers and two-wheelers, were set up at the venue. These services aimed to resolve pension and entitlement issues, assist with health-related concerns, provide artificial limbs to those in need, and act as a mediator between various agencies and ex-servicemen.
The rally was specifically aimed at ex-servicemen, war veterans, disabled soldiers, and war widows to express solidarity and demonstrate that they remain integral members of the Armed Forces fraternity even after retirement. Senior officers from the Armed Forces, including Brigadier Anand Raj Singh, Commander of the Krishna Ghati Brigade, along with other civil dignitaries, attended the event.
During the occasion, veterans, Veer Naris, and Veer Matas were presented with gifts such as caps, cups, dinner sets, as well as wheelchairs, clutches, walking sticks, and hearing aids, sponsored by Bhagwan Mahaveer Vikalaang Sahayata Samiti for the specially-abled veterans.
A team of specialist doctors from the Kiwanis Club of New Delhi provided artificial limbs for disabled ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, Veer Matas, children, and civilians along the border area of Poonch district.
The outreach program also included a medical camp and dental camp, where specialist doctors offered their services to the ex-servicemen. A raffle/bumper draw was also organized during the event. The rally was a resounding success, fostering a supportive environment for the esteemed ex-servicemen and ensuring that their concerns were acknowledged and addressed effectively.DD
