Western Command pays tribute through mega rally
Amritsar News: In a solemn yet celebratory tribute to courage, sacrifice and lifelong service to the Nation, Vajra Corps, under the aegis of Western Command, commemorated the 10th Defence Services Veterans’ Day on 14 January 2026 at Khasa, Amritsar. The occasion honoured the indomitable spirit and selfless contributions of Veterans, Gallantry Awardees, Veer Naris, Widows and families of the Defence Forces.
Observed annually on 14 January, Defence Services Veterans’ Day marks the retirement of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, India’s first Indian Commander-in-Chief, and symbolises the enduring bond between the Armed Forces and their extended family.
Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, VSM, GOC, Vajra Corps, on behalf of the Army Commander, Western Command, expressed deep gratitude to Veterans and their families for their unparalleled service and sacrifice to the Nation, and reaffirmed the Indian Army’s enduring commitment to honour, support and stand firmly alongside its Veterans and their families, today and always.
Defence services welfare minister Shri Mohinder Bhagat, the Chief Guest on the occasion, lauded the invaluable contribution of Veterans to nation-building, particularly their commendable role during the recent floods in Punjab, and conveyed the State Government’s wholehearted support towards the welfare of Ex-Servicemen.
Conceived as both a tribute and a comprehensive welfare outreach, the programme provided a robust and responsive support framework. Over 40 grievance-redressal counters offered on-the-spot assistance on matters related to SPARSH, Pension, ECHS, CSD, resettlement and welfare entitlements, reinforcing the Army’s steadfast commitment to the dignity and well-being of its extended family.
Comprehensive medical support was extended through specialist OPDs, complemented by focused awareness initiatives on healthcare benefits, welfare schemes and post-retirement employment opportunities.
The rally witnessed the participation of approximately 2,500 Veterans and family members in person, with an additional 4,000–4,500 participants joining through virtual platforms across Western Command, ensuring inclusive outreach and meaningful engagement.
Key highlights included felicitation and interaction with Veterans and Veer Naris, cultural performances celebrating the military ethos, multi-specialty medical check-ups, welfare and grievance-redressal stalls, and a community lunch, fostering camaraderie, shared remembrance and collective pride.
Organised by Vajra Corps, the Nodal Formation, the event ensured seamless coordination, dignified conduct and a befitting tribute to the timeless legacy of India’s Veterans, whose service continues to inspire generations and whose sacrifices remain etched in the Nation’s conscience.
As a continuation of the commemorative engagements, a special interaction and lunch for Veteran Officers of the Tricity will be organised on 18 January 2026 at Chandimandir Military Station, reaffirming the Indian Army’s enduring bond with its Veterans and its steadfast commitment to sustained engagement, respect and welfare beyond ceremonial observances.
