ARTRAC Commemorates 10th Veterans' Day with Focus on Enhanced Support
The Indian Army Training Command, known as ARTRAC, successfully conducted the 10th Armed Forces Veterans' Day interaction in Shimla this Wednesday. This significant event drew a substantial crowd of veterans from across Shimla district, all gathering to engage with military leadership and discuss pressing matters.
Leadership Addresses Veteran Concerns Directly
Lieutenant General Sukriti Singh Dahiya, serving as Chief of Staff for ARTRAC, presided over the proceedings. In his opening remarks, he clearly outlined the core purpose of Veterans' Day. The primary goal involves boosting awareness and satisfaction levels among former service members. This effort centers on tackling issues related to welfare, pension disbursements, and entitlements. These concerns extend to the families and next of kin of veterans as well.
General Dahiya expressed deep and sincere gratitude to all attendees for their dedicated and selfless service to the nation. He provided a firm assurance that the Indian Army maintains an unwavering commitment to the well-being of its veterans. "We will spare no effort in resolving the genuine concerns of veterans and their families," he stated emphatically during the interaction.
Spotlight on Digital Welfare Initiatives
The event also served as a platform to highlight ongoing projects designed to strengthen support systems. A key initiative discussed was Project NAMAN. This Indian Army program specifically targets veterans, their families, and dependents. It aims to streamline welfare services through modern digital solutions.
Project NAMAN utilizes digital pension systems like SPARSH and leverages Common Service Centres for Ex-Servicemen (ESM). The project promises to create a single-point interface, making it easier for veterans to access assistance. Officials announced that Project NAMAN will soon be inaugurated in Shimla, bringing these centralized services directly to the local veteran community.
Honoring Distinguished Veteran Contributions
A special segment of the day was dedicated to recognizing individual veterans for their exceptional post-service work. Lieutenant General Dahiya personally felicitated five distinguished retirees:
- Colonel RS Parmar (Retired) for contributions to Hospitality.
- Major (Dr) Ritu Kalra (Retired) for work in Welfare of Veer Naris.
- Subedar Major & Honorary Lieutenant Diwakar Dutt Sharma (Retired) for efforts in Youth Affairs.
- Havildar Mohan Lal Chauhan (Retired) for his Anti-Drug Campaign.
- Chief Petty Officer Giteshwar for entrepreneurship and societal upliftment.
This recognition underscored the diverse and impactful roles veterans continue to play in society long after their active military service concludes. The 10th Veterans' Day in Shimla ultimately reinforced the strong, enduring bond between the Indian Army and its veteran community, with a clear roadmap for improved digital and welfare support.
