Western Command Celebrates Veterans with Major Outreach and Funding
The Indian Army's Western Command marked the 10th Defence Forces Veterans' Day with a series of special events and initiatives. From January 14 to 18, the Command organized Veterans' Rallies and outreach programs across Kangra, Amritsar, Ambala, Delhi, and the Tricity region. These activities demonstrated the Army's profound respect and gratitude for veterans, acknowledging their lifelong service to the nation.
Enhanced Support Systems for Veterans
Western Command has taken concrete steps to support veterans' welfare. It established 41 Veterans Sahayata Kendras (VSKs) as single-window grievance redressal mechanisms. The Command also operates 79 Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) Polyclinics to provide quality medical care to veterans and their dependants.
To further improve these facilities, the Command allocated more than Rs 5 crore in the previous year. An additional Rs 2.5 crore was allocated in the current year, bringing the total to over Rs 7.5 crore for enhancing veteran support services.
Large-Scale Rallies and Special Support
As part of its comprehensive outreach, Western Command organized large-scale Ex-Servicemen Rallies at Jammu and Ferozepur. The Command continues to provide sustained financial, medical, and psychological support to spinal-injured soldiers at the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centre in Mohali.
In alignment with Central government initiatives, Western Command re-implemented Project NAMAN. This project strengthens institutional care and support mechanisms for veterans and Veer Naris.
Grand Veterans' Event at Chandimandir
On January 18, 2026, Headquarters Western Command organized a grand Veterans' event at Chandimandir. Over 1,000 veterans from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force participated. They came from Chandigarh, Panchkula, and Mohali.
The gathering reinforced the strong bond between serving soldiers and veterans. The legacy of service and sacrifice by veterans continues to inspire future generations.
Leadership Interaction and Felicitations
Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of Western Command, attended the event. Shuchi Katiyar, Regional President of the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA), also participated. They interacted with veterans and their families, expressing heartfelt appreciation for their distinguished service and supreme sacrifices.
The event featured felicitations of eminent nonagenarian senior veterans and families. Those honored included:
- Brig Satjit Singh
- Col D C Sharma
- Col Gurkirt Singh Nagra
- Lt Col T S Dhillon
- Maj Karnail Singh
- Maj R S Sindhu
- Subha Gill
- Jaya Babbar
- Shalini Bhandral
- Deepika Kohli
Commending Veterans' Continuing Contributions
During the interaction, Lieutenant General Manoj Kumar Katiyar praised veterans for their enduring contributions to society after active service. He noted that their exemplary leadership, discipline, and steadfast values continue to enhance the credibility and standing of the Armed Forces.
The General observed that veterans remain vital agents of positive change. They drive progress and development across diverse domains, continuing to serve the nation in meaningful ways.
