HThe eadquarters Army Training Command (ARTRAC) organised the 10th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day interaction for veterans from Shimla district in Shimla on Wednesday. A large number of veterans participated in the event.
The programme was presided over by Lieutenant General Sukriti Singh Dahiya, Chief of Staff, ARTRAC. Addressing the gathering, he said the aim of observing Veterans’ Day is to increase awareness and satisfaction among veterans by addressing issues related to their welfare, pensions and entitlements, including those concerning their next of kin (NOK).
During the interaction, the Chief of Staff thanked the veterans for their selfless service to the country and assured them that the Indian Army remains committed to their welfare and well-being. He said every effort would be made to resolve genuine issues faced by veterans and their families.
The occasion also highlighted various ongoing initiatives aimed at strengthening veterans’ welfare. Project NAMAN, an Indian Army initiative for veterans, their families and NOKs, focuses on providing welfare services through digital pension systems such as SPARSH and Common Service Centres for ex-servicemen. Project NAMAN will be inaugurated in Shimla and will serve as a single-point interface to help veterans and their dependents.
During the event, Lt Gen Dahiya felicitated five veterans — Col RS Parmar (Retd), Maj (Dr) Ritu Kalra (Retd), Sub Maj and Hony Lt Diwakar Dutt Sharma (Retd), Hav Mohan Lal Chauhan (Retd) and Chief Petty Officer Giteshwar — for their contributions in the fields of hospitality, welfare of Veer Naris, youth affairs, anti-drug campaigns, entrepreneurship and social upliftment.
Col RS Parmar (Retd) was commissioned in December 1974 into 2/3 Gorkha Rifles. After retirement, he rendered valuable services at various establishments working for the welfare of ex-servicemen. He later served as a director at Bahra University, Waknaghat, where he inspired students to join the Armed Forces.
The veteran officer has empowered 11 ex-servicemen near Theog through hospitality, transport and agro-based industries. He also regularly assists Veer Naris, their wards and veterans by guiding them on the latest instructions related to pay, emoluments, SPARSH, ECHS and other welfare schemes.
Follow us
