Kanpur: The 8th Armed Forces Veterans’ Day was observed with reverence and gratitude towards ex-servicemen for their selfless service and sacrifices today across the country. Commemorative ceremonies, including Wreath Laying and Veterans’ Rallies, were organized at multiple locations nationwide, such as Srinagar, Pathankot, Delhi, Kanpur, Alwar, Jodhpur, Guwahati, Mumbai, Secunderabad, Kochi, and others.
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh led the celebrations with a Veterans’ Rally at Air Force Station, Kanpur, attended by approximately 1,000 ex-servicemen. Expressing heartfelt gratitude, Shri Rajnath Singh emphasized the special place veterans hold in every Indian’s heart. He lauded their selfless dedication, stating that soldiers rise above familial, caste, and creed considerations for the nation’s security. The Minister highlighted the government’s commitment to veterans’ welfare, citing initiatives like the One Rank One Pension scheme and healthcare provisions.
The ceremony included a wreath-laying tribute at the War Memorial, where Shri Rajnath Singh paid homage to the heroes for their supreme sacrifices. Chief of Defence Staff General Anil Chauhan, Air Marshal Vibhas Pande, and Air Commodore MK Praveen were among the dignitaries present.
Rajya Raksha Mantri Shri Ajay Bhatt later attended the event at Secunderabad. In New Delhi, Chief of the Air Staff Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari, Chief of the Naval Staff Admiral R Hari Kumar, and Chief of Integrated Defence Staff Lt Gen JP Mathew, along with other senior officers, joined the occasion. The Service Chiefs praised veterans for their contributions to nation-building.
The celebrations featured the release of magazines, including the ‘SAGAR SAMVAD’ by the Indian Navy, ‘VAYU SAMVEDNA’ by the Indian Air Force, and ‘SAMMAN’ by the Indian Army. The ‘We for Veterans’ anthem echoed at public places as a tribute to the veteran community.
Armed Forces Veterans’ Day is observed annually on January 14 to honor the retirement of the first Commander-in-Chief, Field Marshal KM Cariappa, in 1953. Since its inception in 2016, the day signifies national gratitude and hosts interactive events honoring ex-servicemen.