Kohima: In continuation of its dedicated effort to connect with the Ex-Servicemen (ESM) fraternity, Spear Corps of the Indian Army organized a Mega Rally for the Ex-Servicemen of the Armed Forces and Assam Rifles for the state of Nagaland and Karbi Anglong district of Assam at the Bhagat Stadium in Rangapahar Military Station, Dimapur on February 12, 2025.
The event witnessed the participation of over 1300 Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris, widows, war veterans, and their family members. 16 Veer Naris (war widows), 4 Veer Matas (mothers), and 33 war veterans, including a distinguished participant from the 1962 Indo-China War, 1971 Indo-Pak war, and 1999 Kargil War were in attendance, actively engaging with officials and sharing their invaluable experiences.
Neiphiu Rio, Chief Minister of Nagaland was the chief guest along with Lt Gen Abhijit S Pendharkar GOC, Spear Corps on the occasion, and was facilitated by the Spear Corps Commander along with other dignitaries from the civil administration, Army and Assam Rifles. The event provided an opportunity for the ex-servicemen to reconnect with their military roots and share their experiences and concerns.
The Veer Naris, war veterans, and widows were honored by the dignitaries for their sacrifice and selfless service to the nation. The veterans are the source of inspiration for the younger generations, motivating them to contribute to nation-building. Comprehensive medical facilities, including ENT, Orthopaedic, Eye specialists, and dentists were made available at the rally with doctors and paramedical staff of the Army, Assam Rifles, and district hospital providing consultations and medicines to the attendees. Special Medical devices, wheelchairs, walking sticks, and hearing aids, were distributed to needy Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris, and War Widows.
A cultural program added to the celebratory spirit, making it a memorable experience for all attendees. Veer Naris, war veterans, Gallantry Award Winners, and specially abled personnel were felicitated by the Hon’ble Chief Minister of Nagaland and Spear Corps Commander as tokens of appreciation for their relentless service and sacrifice for the nation.
Dedicated Information Kiosks and Grievances Redressal Counters installed by various Record Offices, Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pension), SPARSH, Rajya Sainik Board (RSB), Army Recruitment Office (ARO), Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), Banks, Insurance Companies, Nagaland Legal Department and Civil Hospital (CIHSR) served the veterans by providing information on various government policies and welfare programs.
Commercial facilities of the Canteen Services, Sajni (a Welfare Initiative), vehicle sales, etc, provided a single-point facility to meet the requirements of the attendees who came from far-flung areas, stated a press note from the PRO Defence, Manipur, Nagaland and Southern Arunachal Pradesh.
