Itanagar, April 26 (IANS) Arunachal Pradesh Governor Lieutenant General K.T. Parnaik (Retd) on Sunday stressed that the Union government’s provisions for reserving vacancies for ex-servicemen must be implemented in both letter and spirit to uphold justice, dignity, and due recognition for military veterans.

Participating in the Ex-Servicemen Rally at Likabali Military Station at Likabali in Arunachal Pradesh, the Governor said that the nation owes a lasting debt of gratitude to its veterans, whose experience and patriotism remains a valuable national asset.

He acknowledged Ex-Servicemen and Veer Naris’ immense sacrifices and continued contribution to nation-building.

Lieutenant General Parnaik (Retd) commended the ex-servicemen for their dedicated and distinguished service to the nation, acknowledging their sacrifices, discipline and unwavering commitment in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty and security.

Highlighting the need to address the challenges faced by personnel who retire early below officer rank, the Governor stressed the importance of meaningful rehabilitation, resettlement and livelihood opportunities.

Strongly advocating for the welfare of Veer Naris, Governor Parnaik called for greater societal respect, institutional support and compassionate outreach for the brave spouses of fallen soldiers.

He emphasised the need to safeguard their pension rights, ensure quality education for their children, and strengthen access to medical assistance and welfare support.

The Governor also urged the state government to introduce stronger provisions for ex-servicemen welfare, including cash incentives and land allotment for decorated personnel, while ensuring smooth disbursement of gratuity and welfare funds.

He called for enhanced job reservations in civil offices and robust medical support through the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS).

Describing ex-servicemen as disciplined, skilled and mission-oriented human resources, Lieutenant General (retired) Parnaik said their expertise should be meaningfully utilised in sectors such as the Ecological Territorial Army, Fire and Emergency Services, Police Services and as community motivators.

He stressed that the state must extend all eligible benefits to veterans and harness their experience in nation-building and public service.

General Officer Commanding’s (GOC) 56 Infantry Division, Major Genera Vivek Bakshi, and Arunachal Pradesh Director-cum-Secretary of Rajya Sainik Board Air Commodore Rinchin Dorji Musabi (Retd.), also addressed the gathering, highlighting various welfare schemes, rehabilitation measures and ongoing initiatives for the benefit of ex-servicemen, Veer Naris and their families.

The Governor, along with MLA Oken Tayeng, and GOC’s 56 Infantry Division, Major General Bakshi, felicitated ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, next of kin and dependents, recognising their service, resilience and achievements on the occasion.

Later, Governor Parnaik, accompanied by the GOC and other dignitaries visited the service counters set up as part of the Ex-Servicemen Rally, including health check-ups, dental care, PAN and Aadhaar facilitation, SBI bank account opening, and ex-servicemen welfare information desks.

He also interacted with ex-servicemen and their family members, listening to their concerns and guiding officials to address several issues on the spot.

In a touching gesture of care and solidarity, the Governor also handed over wheelchairs to immobile ex-servicemen, reaffirming the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to the welfare, dignity and well-being of veterans.

More than 1,300 ex-servicemen and Veer Naris from Arunachal Pradesh and Assam participated in the rally, making it a significant gathering of veterans and war widows united in service, solidarity and shared purpose.

–IANS

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