Mool Raj
I would like to express my gratitude to Indian Army through this column about the crucial relationship between the armed forces and its veterans meet held on 15 October 2025.The Suhanda Battalion of Delta Force organized an Ex-Servicemen Meet at Khellani COB with the objective of strengthening bonds with veterans and their families while addressing their grievances and welfare needs.
The event featured meaningful interaction between Army representatives and the veterans enabling discussion on various welfare measures. A dedicated CSD counter was set up exclusively for the ESM to provide them convenient access to essential provisions. A total of 25 Ex-Servicemen and their families attended the event. The Zila Sainik Welfare Officer, District Doda also interacted with the veterans and took note of their concerns.
The meet concluded with heartfelt Early Diwali wishes extended to all veterans and their families, reaffirming the Army’s enduring bond with its proud fraternity.
A covenant of service: Upholding the honor of our veterans
The recent announcement by the government to double the financial assistance for non-pensioner ex-servicemen is a welcome and necessary step. Beyond the immediate relief it provides, it is a timely reminder of the profound and often complex relationship between our armed forces and the veterans they create. For generations, this covenant has been understood: men and women give their youth, their health, and sometimes their lives, and in return, the nation pledges its unwavering support. But this is a contract that requires constant renewal, and there are times when it appears strained.
News of protests over pension disparities or the slow pace of implementing welfare schemes reminds us that good intentions must be matched by efficient action. The frustration expressed by veterans’ groups is a direct reflection of the challenges they face: the lack of recognition for their military skills in the civilian job market, struggles with resettlement, and bureaucratic hurdles in accessing entitled benefits. These issues are not just logistical problems; they are moral ones. As thousands of soldiers retire each year, often at a young age, the country faces a critical question. Will we see them as liabilities or as assets? It is correctly called veterans a “national asset,” highlighting their “experience, leadership, discipline & strategic thinking”. The need of the hour is that championed policies and technology-driven solutions to improve services, which shows a positive commitment.
However, the responsibility for our veterans’ well-being does not fall solely on the government. As one sociological study of retired soldiers found, the transition back to civilian life is a struggle not just economically, but socially. It requires an entire society—the private sector, community leaders, and ordinary citizens—to play a part in reintegrating these heroes. I think that if we underscored this, noting that neglecting veterans’ resettlement can affect the morale of serving personnel and discourage young people from joining the army.
The covenant of service extends beyond the battlefield. It requires us to listen when veterans speak of their struggles, to support their resettlement, and to provide pathways for them to continue contributing to our nation. The recent initiatives are commendable, but they are just one step. The ultimate tribute we can pay to our veterans is to ensure they never feel forgotten, but rather remain a vital, respected, and integrated part of the nation they served so selflessly. Ex-servicemen are a national asset, bringing decades of experience, leadership, discipline & strategic thinking to society
The event vividly showcased Army’s unwavering commitment in the service to the nation and its dedication to nurture strong positive relationships with the youth of the region. The efforts of the Indian Army were well received and appreciated by the locals.
The Indian Army’s efforts to organize such initiatives are truly commendable. Their commitment to nation-building and community development is inspiring, and their presence in the region can have a positive impact on the lives of the people. Jai Hind. Thanks to Indian Army for organising such programs for the Veteran Ex-servicemen and I hope that such programs will be regularly organise in future also that will upgrade the morale of the Ex-servicemen. Thanks and once again Jai Hind.
(The author is a freelancer and can be reached at [email protected])
