Chandigarh Pays Tribute to Armed Forces Veterans on Special Day
Chandigarh marked the 10th Armed Forces Veterans Day with a solemn ceremony on Wednesday. The event celebrated the courage and dedication of India's military veterans. It also remembered their ultimate sacrifices for the nation.
Annual Observance Honors Field Marshal Cariappa
People observe this day every year on January 14. The date commemorates the retirement of Field Marshal K M Cariappa. He served as India's first Indian Commander-in-Chief. This year's ceremony highlighted personal stories that capture the true spirit of military service.
Inspiring Journey of Lt Col Ravinder Jit Randhawa
One remarkable story came from Lt Col Ravinder Jit Randhawa. She retired from the Indian Army recently. Her journey makes her India's first 'Veer Nari' commissioned into the Army. A 'Veer Nari' is the widow of a martyred soldier.
The Zila Sainik Welfare Office in Chandigarh organized the event. Veterans, 'Veer Naris', and serving officials attended the gathering. Chief Secretary H. Rajesh Prasad joined as the chief guest. He honored 'Veer Naris' and award winners during the ceremony.
Prasad discussed improvements to welfare schemes for veterans. He promised continued support through the Zila Sainik Welfare Office. His words reassured the veteran community about their future care.
Personal Sacrifice Leads to Historic Achievement
Lt Col Randhawa's story begins with profound loss. Her husband, Major Sukhwinder Jeet Singh Randhawa, received the Kirti Chakra posthumously. He came from Gurdaspur and joined the Corps of Artillery in 1989.
Major Randhawa made the supreme sacrifice on June 17, 1997. He died during an anti-terror operation in Anantnag, Jammu and Kashmir. At that time, he served with 2 Rashtriya Rifles.
His wife Ravinder faced devastating news. She was a young mother with an infant daughter. "All hope was lost after that one call," she remembered. Yet she found strength in her husband's dream.
Major Randhawa wanted their daughter to grow up within the Army ethos. Ravinder decided to honor his wish in a extraordinary way. She resolved to join the Armed Forces herself.
Breaking Barriers to Serve the Nation
Ravinder came from Amritsar and had Army connections. Her background and her husband's sacrifice motivated her decision. She faced significant obstacles due to her age and marital status.
Dr Ranjana Malik provided crucial support. She served as former president of the Army Wives Welfare Association. Then Chief of Army Staff Gen Ved Prakash Malik also helped. They granted special waivers for Ravinder's unique situation.
Ravinder cleared the Services Selection Board in Bhopal during December 1997. She joined the Officers Training Academy in Chennai on March 21, 1998. That date coincidentally was her birthday. The Army commissioned her on September 5, 1998.
This achievement made history. Ravinder became the first 'Veer Nari' to wear the Army uniform. She served in the Army Ordnance Corps while raising her daughter alone.
Powerful Messages for Future Generations
Lt Col Randhawa shared her thoughts during Veterans Day. "This day symbolizes respect and honor for all who served," she said. "It honors those who made the supreme sacrifice too. They gave all their days for our tomorrow."
She offered advice to young people facing challenges. "Never give up," she urged. "If you believe in yourself, no problem is insurmountable. Remember, no one can save us unless we stand up for ourselves first."
Lt Col Randhawa addressed young women specifically. "You inspire me every day," she told them. "From fighting to join the NDA to breaking barriers in every field. Don't let anyone or anything stop you from achieving your dreams."
Legacy of Resilience Continues to Inspire
Lt Col Ravinder Jit Randhawa superannuated on March 31, 2023. She leaves behind a powerful legacy of resilience. Her story continues to inspire new generations across India.
The 10th Armed Forces Veterans Day in Chandigarh successfully honored past service. It also highlighted ongoing contributions from veterans like Lt Col Randhawa. Their journeys remind us of the enduring spirit within India's Armed Forces community.
