A nation’s real strength does not lie merely in its economic indicators or its industrial growth; it lies in the dignity it extends to those who defended it. India’s former soldiers, sailors and airmen are among the finest assets the country possesses — disciplined, skilled, trained in leadership, and committed to duty even in the harshest circumstances. As they transition from military to civilian life, it becomes a collective responsibility of the government, industries and society to ensure that they are welcomed with respect, opportunity and purpose.
In this backdrop, the job fair being organised by the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence, on 5 December 2025 at Satwari Cantonment, Jammu, is not just another employment event. It is a meaningful national initiative that recognises the invaluable contribution of ex-servicemen and seeks to integrate them into the civilian workforce with dignity.
The participation of leading corporations and industries from sectors such as security, IT, logistics, administration, engineering, healthcare and more clearly reflects the growing confidence of the private sector in hiring ex-servicemen. Their experience in crisis management, team leadership, technical operations, and mission-oriented work culture often surpasses the expectations of civilian workplaces. Employers who have previously recruited veterans acknowledge that their presence enhances discipline, productivity, reliability and organisational stability.
DGR’s plan to organise 18 such job fairs across India during the 2025–26 financial year, with eight already conducted successfully in major cities including Delhi, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Varanasi and Kolkata, shows commendable long-term vision. It is not merely a welfare step — it is a strategic investment in national human resource development.
For industries, this job fair presents an opportunity they should not overlook. Hiring veterans is not charity; it is an intelligent business decision. Their ability to adapt quickly, follow systems, lead teams, and handle pressure makes them ideal employees in modern corporate environments. Companies that prioritise ex-servicemen not only strengthen their workforce but also contribute to a social cause that is deeply tied to national pride.
For the veterans, this platform offers a dignified gateway into civilian careers. With free registration available through the AI-based portal www.esmhire.com and the DGR website, and the chance to interact directly with recruiters, they can explore roles that align with their skills, experience and aspirations. Many former soldiers often hesitate while entering the civilian job market due to unfamiliarity with corporate processes — initiatives like this remove that hesitation and open doors to stable and meaningful employment.
At its heart, the Satwari Cantonment job fair is a tribute to service and sacrifice. It reminds us that those who protected the nation in uniform deserve equal protection when they return to civilian life — protection in the form of opportunities, support and respect.
The call now is clear: employers must participate enthusiastically, and ex-servicemen must step forward with confidence. When the nation stands with its soldiers even after their service ends, it becomes stronger, fairer and truly grateful.DD
