As the nation marks Armed Forces Flag Day today, it is a moment to reflect on the unparalleled service and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces. This day not only celebrates the valour and dedication of those in uniform but also acknowledges the contributions of veterans whose legacy continues to inspire generations.
Veterans form the backbone of the Indian Army’s rich tradition, their values of discipline and patriotism serving as a guiding light for society. Even after their active service, they remain integral to nation-building, contributing as community leaders, mentors, and role models. Recognising their enduring importance, the Indian Army, in partnership with the Government of India, has been implementing a series of welfare initiatives to support and empower veterans, Veernaris (widows of soldiers), and their families.
*Key Initiatives for Veterans and Families*
The Indian Army has intensified its efforts to address the needs of veterans and their families, ensuring their welfare and dignity are upheld.
– *Outreach Across the Nation*:
From July 2022 to March 2024, the Directorate of Indian Army Veterans (DIAV) organised outreach activities in 210 locations across the country. These initiatives resolved pension-related and documentation issues for many veterans and widows, ensuring access to benefits. Additionally, guides on welfare schemes were distributed to Veernaris and Next of Kin (NoKs), enhancing awareness about available support.
– *Efficient Grievance Redressal Mechanism*
Modern tools such as the SAMBANDH chatbot, launched in January 2024, have revolutionized grievance redressal for veterans. This WhatsApp-based platform has resolved over 1,789 issues in just 10 months. Similarly, Veerangana & Veterans Sewa Kendra (VSK+), operational since November 2022, has facilitated over 389,000 calls, addressing queries and resolving service tickets efficiently.
– *Financial Support for Families*:
Between April 2022 and March 2024, the Indian Army disbursed ₹121.06 Crores in welfare grants across various categories. This included ₹80.57 Crores in ex-gratia payments to the families of battle casualties and ₹32.35 Crores in education grants for over 20,000 children of veterans and Veernaris.
– Empowering Women through Skill Development:
Post-COVID, the Indian Army has redoubled its efforts under the Nari Sashaktikaran initiative. From September 2023 to March 2024, over 3,277 women—including 23 widows—were trained across 21 job roles, fostering economic independence. This initiative continues to expand, with nearly 3,000 women currently enrolled in skill development courses.
– *Project NAMAN:*
Launched in August 2024, Project NAMAN has established SPARSH-enabled facilitation centers for pensioners, with plans to expand from 14 centers today to 100 by 2026. These centers provide critical support to veterans and their families, significantly increasing accessibility to services such as life certificate submissions and pension disbursements.
*Veterans: A National Treasure*
Veterans are more than just the Army’s pride; they are the nation’s strength. Their resilience and values inspire the youth, while their leadership enriches civil society. Recognising this, the Indian Army has ensured that welfare initiatives cater to the holistic needs of veterans and their families.
In addition to financial assistance, the Army has emphasised training and education for units to better support veterans and their families. Specialised training sessions initiated in 2024 aim to equip Army personnel with the knowledge needed to guide veterans and their families through welfare schemes and documentation procedures.
The Indian Army continues to expand its outreach efforts to ensure every veteran and their family receives the respect, care, and support they deserve. Through initiatives like Project NAMAN, skill development programs, and enhanced grievance redressal systems, the Army is steadfast in its commitment to serving those who have served the nation.
As we celebrate Armed Forces Flag Day, the nation salutes the courage and dedication of the armed forces and their veterans. Their sacrifices form the foundation of India’s security and sovereignty, while their contributions to society strengthen the fabric of the nation.
Today, let us honour our heroes—past and present—and reaffirm our collective responsibility to support them and their families in every way possible. The Indian Army’s efforts ensure that the legacy of our veterans not only endures but thrives, inspiring generations to come.
