To mark the 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day, the Indian Army’s Western Command organised a series of veterans’ rallies and outreach programmes across northern India. The events highlighted long‑term welfare initiatives, including 41 Veterans Sahayata Kendras and 79 ECHS polyclinics, reaffirming the Army’s enduring commitment to veterans, Veer Naris, and their families.
The Indian Army’s Western Command has commemorated the 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day with a coordinated series of events designed to celebrate, support, and reconnect with its veteran community. From Kangra and Amritsar to Ambala, Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula and Delhi, veterans’ rallies and outreach programmes were held between January 14 and 18, creating multiple touchpoints for engagement and assistance.
At a key event, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding‑in‑Chief, Western Command, and AWWA Regional President Shuchi Katiyar interacted with veterans and Veer Naris, expressing gratitude for their sacrifices and reaffirming the Army’s pledge to stand by them beyond active service. The Command showcased its welfare architecture, including 41 Veterans Sahayata Kendras (VSKs) acting as single‑window grievance redressal centres and 79 ECHS polyclinics providing medical support across the region.
These initiatives, supported by significant financial allocations, underline a long‑term strategy to strengthen bonds between serving personnel and ex‑servicemen while ensuring dignified, accessible welfare mechanisms.
Key highlights / important points
Wide regional outreach: Rallies and programmes held across Kangra, Amritsar, Ambala, Chandigarh, Mohali, Panchkula and Delhi, covering a large veteran population.
Veterans Sahayata Kendras: 41 VSKs established as single‑window centres for grievances, documentation, and welfare support.
Healthcare network: 79 ECHS polyclinics under Western Command provide medical care to veterans and their dependants.
Leadership engagement: Lt Gen Manoj Kumar Katiyar and Shuchi Katiyar personally interacted with veterans and Veer Naris, reinforcing emotional and institutional support.
Project NAMAN & welfare focus: Ongoing initiatives, financial backing, and structured outreach reflect a sustained commitment to honouring service and sacrifice.
Conclusion
Through its Veterans’ Day observances, the Western Command has gone beyond ceremonial tribute—demonstrating a living, operational commitment to the welfare, dignity, and continued inclusion of veterans and their families in the Army fraternity.
Sources: IBTimes India, NewKeralaNEWKERALA.COM, MSN, WebIndia123