Punjab Newsline, Chandigarh :
Western Command Organises Mega Rally in Amritsar; Minister Mohinder Bhagat Lauds Veterans
To honour the courage, sacrifice and exemplary contribution of Defence Services Veterans who dedicated their lives to the service of the Nation, Vajra Corps, under the aegis of Western Command, commemorated the 10th Defence Services Veterans’ Day at Khasa, Amritsar in a dignified and spirited manner. The occasion paid tribute to Veterans, Gallantry Awardees, Veer Naris, widows of martyrs and families of the Defence Forces.
Observed annually on January 14, Defence Services Veterans’ Day marks the retirement of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, India’s first Indian Commander-in-Chief. The day symbolises the enduring bond, respect and gratitude shared between the Armed Forces and their extended family.
Addressing the gathering, Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, General Officer Commanding, Vajra Corps, on behalf of the Army Commander, Western Command, expressed deep gratitude to Veterans and their families for their unparalleled service and sacrifices. He reaffirmed that the Indian Army remains firmly committed to the honour, welfare and continued support of its Veterans, today and in the future.
The Chief Guest on the occasion, Punjab Defence Services Welfare Minister Shri Mohinder Bhagat, lauded the invaluable role of Veterans in nation-building. He especially highlighted their commendable contribution during the recent floods in Punjab and assured that the State Government would continue to extend wholehearted support for the welfare of Ex-Servicemen.
The programme was conceived as both a tribute and a comprehensive welfare initiative. More than 40 grievance-redressal counters were set up to provide on-the-spot assistance on issues related to SPARSH, pensions, ECHS, CSD, resettlement and other welfare entitlements. Specialist medical OPDs were also organised, along with awareness sessions on healthcare benefits, welfare schemes and post-retirement employment opportunities.
The rally witnessed the participation of nearly 2,500 Veterans and family members in person, while an additional 4,000 to 4,500 participants joined through virtual platforms across Western Command, ensuring wide and inclusive outreach.
Key highlights of the event included felicitation and interaction with Veterans and Veer Naris, cultural performances celebrating military ethos, multi-specialty medical check-ups, welfare and grievance-redressal stalls, and a community lunch, fostering camaraderie, shared remembrance and collective pride.
As part of the continued commemorative engagements, a special interaction and lunch for Veteran Officers from the Tricity will be organised on January 18, 2026, at Chandimandir Military Station, reaffirming the Indian Army’s enduring bond with its Veterans and its steadfast commitment to respect, engagement and welfare beyond ceremonial occasions.