Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday said that financial assistance of over Rs 17 crore has been provided to ex-servicemen, gallantry award winners and families of martyrs in the state during the current financial year.
More than Rs 17 crore has been disbursed to 2,263 beneficiaries under various welfare schemes. Additionally, 968 elderly pensioners have received Rs 6.12 crore to support financial security and ensure a dignified life, Sukhu said in a statement issued here. He said that 1,084 gallantry award winners have been given honorariums amounting to Rs 3 crore in recognition of their bravery and service to the nation.
Sukhu further stated that Rs 7.62 crore has been provided to 57 dependents of defence personnel who were martyred or disabled in action. Besides, Rs 20.83 lakh has been disbursed to 154 war Jagir beneficiaries as part of the government’s welfare initiatives. “The ex-servicemen of the state and their families are invaluable assets whose unparalleled contribution and supreme sacrifices in safeguarding the nation will always be remembered with gratitude and pride," Sukhu said.
Highlighting efforts to motivate the youth, Sukhu said a budget of Rs 2.28 crore has been approved for organising Army recruitment rallies in Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur and Shimla districts. The initiative aims to strengthen patriotic spirit among the youth and encourage them to join the armed forces.
Expressing pride in the state’s legacy, he said it is a matter of honour that a small state like Himachal Pradesh has four Param Vir Chakra awardees. Sukhu said the bravery and sacrifices of Himachali soldiers reflect their deep sense of duty and patriotism. He also informed that Rs 10.26 crore has been earmarked for the financial year 2025–26 to strengthen and expand the Major Somnath Training Academy at Barchhwar in Mandi district. Major Somnath Sharma was the first recipient of the Param Vir Chakra from Himachal. He added that the academy plays an important role in providing quality and competitive training to youth, helping them prepare effectively for recruitment in the armed forces.
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