KD NEWS SERVICE
SRINAGAR, Jan 14: Defence Forces Veterans’ Day was observed across the country on Tuesday, January 14, to honour the invaluable service, sacrifices and unwavering commitment of India’s military veterans. The day commemorates the superannuation of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, OBE, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, and is dedicated to recognising the indomitable spirit of soldiers who have served the nation with pride and distinction.
According to a statement issued by the Public Relations Officer (PRO), Defence, Srinagar, the Defence Forces Veterans’ Day function in Jammu and Kashmir was organised under the aegis of the Chinar Corps at the Jammu and Kashmir Light Infantry (JKLI) Regimental Centre in Srinagar. The event witnessed the participation of the General Officer Commanding (GOC) Chinar Corps, senior Army officials, defence veterans, Veer Matas, Veer Naris and gallantry awardees.
The PRO Defence statement said that despite the severe winter chill in the Kashmir Valley, the enthusiasm and warmth displayed by the veterans remained unmistakable, reflecting their enduring bond with the Armed Forces. The programme was organised not only to honour their dedicated service to the nation but also to provide them with first-hand information about various welfare schemes and initiatives being implemented by the Central Government and the Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory administration for the benefit of ex-servicemen and their families.
As per the PRO Defence, Srinagar, the Chinar Corps Commander felicitated the distinguished veterans and gallantry awardees on the occasion and expressed deep gratitude for their service and sacrifices made in the line of duty. He assured the veterans of continuous assistance and support from both the Army and the civil administration, reiterating the commitment to safeguarding their welfare and addressing their concerns.
The event reaffirmed the Army’s enduring respect for its veterans and underscored the strong emotional and institutional bond between serving soldiers and those who have laid the foundation of the Armed Forces through decades of dedicated service, the PRO Defence, Srinagar, added.
