SHIMLA: Himachal Pradesh Industry Minister Kishan Kapoor called on Union Defence Minister A.K. Antony in New Delhi and has requested to provide 1.50 crore assistance for the maintenance and beautification of Martyrs Memorial at Dharamsala.

Kapoor has also requested the Union Defence Minister to review the present recruitment policy on population criteria based policy as it has deprived the talented and brave youth of Himachal Pradesh to join Armed Forces. He told that large numbers of Himachalis are serving in the Army and brave sons of Himachal had won laurels in the battle and brought honour to Himachal Pradesh.

Industry Minister told the Union Defence Minister that the Department of Sainik Welfare has taken up some issues with the GOI, Ministry of Defence and has requested to expedite these issues on priority basis.

Union Defence Minister appreciated the steps taken for the welfare of the soldiers and ex-servicemen by the State Government and assured that Central Government will provide all possible help to the State Government in implementing various welfare schemes to the soldiers and ex-servicemen.