A special outreach programme for Ex-Servicemen (ESM), Veer Naris and the families of veterans was organised at Thalela in Jammu and Kashmir on Saturday to mark Kargil Vijay Diwas. The initiative sought to honour the sacrifices of military veterans and provide them with access to welfare, healthcare and support services while commemorating India’s victory in the 1999 Kargil War.
According to details received by The Chenab Times, the programme was organised by an Assam Rifles Battalion under the aegis of 9 Sector Rashtriya Rifles. A total of 220 people attended the event, including four Veer Naris and 13 widows of former servicemen and soldiers.
The programme began with the registration of participants, followed by an address from the Commandant of the Assam Rifles Battalion. During the address, tribute was paid to the soldiers who laid down their lives during the Kargil War, while acknowledging the contributions of Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their families. The Commandant also reaffirmed the force’s commitment to the welfare of veterans.
As part of the event, the four Veer Naris and 13 widows were felicitated in recognition of their sacrifices and contributions to the nation. An interactive session was also held, allowing Ex-Servicemen and Veer Naris to raise welfare-related concerns, share suggestions and discuss their expectations with officials.
A Grievance Redressal Cell, managed by the Zila Sainik Board, was established to assist participants with pension matters, documentation and other welfare-related issues. An Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Help Desk provided information on membership, Smart Cards, empanelled hospitals, medical reimbursement and healthcare services.
To facilitate access to essential services, dedicated counters of the State Bank of India, the Canteen Stores Department (CSD) and a Non-CSD facility were set up at the venue. A medical camp conducted by Assam Rifles medical officers offered general health check-ups, blood pressure and blood sugar screening, medical consultations, medicines and referrals where required.
Representatives also briefed participants on various government welfare schemes and financial assistance programmes available to Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their families.
The programme concluded with a vote of thanks and a community lunch, providing an opportunity for serving personnel, veterans and their families to interact. The outreach initiative reflected the Indian Army’s continued efforts to maintain close engagement with veterans and ensure access to welfare services while commemorating the sacrifices associated with Kargil Vijay Diwas.
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