SRINAGAR: On January 14, 2025, Lieutenant Governor Shri Manoj Sinha paid tribute to ex-servicemen and Armed Forces personnel during a commemorative event in Akhnoor, which was presided over by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. The event marked the occasion of Veterans Day, dedicated to honoring the distinguished service of ex-servicemen and their families.
“I bow my head in gratitude to all the veterans, valiant Jawans, Veer Naris, and families of our Armed Forces’ brave-hearts. We will forever remain indebted to our Veterans who have protected the nation from enemies and continue to contribute to the nation’s growth and development,” the Lieutenant Governor said in his address.
The Lieutenant Governor expressed deep appreciation for the Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for dedicating the day to the veterans. He reiterated the government’s commitment to safeguarding the interests of Armed Forces personnel and their families.
Emphasising the importance of soldiers in securing the nation, he said, “Soldiers protecting the borders are the guarantee of security and development of the nation. It is the collective responsibility of society to take concrete measures for the welfare of soldiers and Veterans.”
He further remarked on the historic significance of Akhnoor, stating, “Akhnoor bears the indelible footprints of the valour and courage of our Veterans.” The Lieutenant Governor commended the 108-foot tall Monumental National Flag and the Akhnoor Heritage Museum, both dedicated to the nation by Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh. These will serve as enduring symbols of the selfless devotion and sacrifices of soldiers and their families.
“A martyr’s house is a sacred temple. This feeling and respect should be there in the minds of the common people,” he added. He also highlighted several welfare programs aimed at supporting the education and career prospects of the children of veterans.
The Lieutenant Governor paid homage to Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, and observed a two-minute silence to honor the martyrs of the Armed Forces. During the event, mobility aids, such as motorized wheelchairs and retrofitted scooties, were distributed to veterans and Veer Naris.
In a separate address at the 9th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day celebration in Akhnoor, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah assured veterans that the Jammu and Kashmir government would remain steadfast in delivering all benefits under ex-servicemen welfare schemes promptly. He reaffirmed, “Taking care of you is not a favour—it is our duty,” and emphasized the government’s commitment to addressing any concerns raised by veterans.
“We are committed to serving you with the same dedication that you showed in serving the nation,” he said, acknowledging the unparalleled sacrifices of the veterans. He also expressed his gratitude, stating, “It is because of your service that we sleep soundly at night, knowing that our country is in safe hands.”
The ceremony in Akhnoor also witnessed the hoisting of a 108-feet tall national flag and the inauguration of a heritage museum by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh. He was accompanied by the Lieutenant Governor, Chief Minister, Chief of Defence Staff, and other senior officers. The event served as a powerful reminder of the courage and commitment of the Armed Forces and the nation’s debt to its veterans.
