In a significant revelation at an ex-servicemen rally, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh, Army Commander of the Sapta Shakti Command, disclosed that Pakistan surrendered within just 90 hours during Operation Sindoor. The event, held at the Hisar Military Cantonment on Saturday, saw massive participation from veterans and their families across Haryana.
Operation Sindoor: Swift Victory Recalled
Addressing media personnel, Lieutenant General Manjinder Singh recalled the tense period following a major terrorist attack inside the country. "We were preparing for a long battle and even prepared a list of veterans to be called up, but the conflict ended far sooner than expected. The enemy surrendered in just 90 hours," he stated. The Army Commander's comments shed new light on the rapid conclusion of the military operation that followed the terrorist incident.
The rally witnessed enthusiastic participation from more than 1,500 ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, and their families from ten districts of Haryana: Bhiwani, Charkhi Dadri, Fatehabad, Hisar, Jhajjar, Jind, Mahendragarh, Rewari, Rohtak, and Sirsa. Attendees availed themselves of medical camp facilities organized during the event.
Honoring Heroes and Welfare Initiatives
The ceremony was graced by Haryana's Minister for Military and Paramilitary Welfare, Rao Narbir Singh, as chief guest, along with Major General Amit Talwar, GOC of the Dot on Target Division. The rally served as a platform to honor Veer Naris, war-wounded veterans, and recognize exceptional service through medal awards.
In a significant welfare measure, thirteen disabled veterans received e-scooters, assistive devices, and financial support during the event. The gesture underscored the government's commitment to supporting those who have served the nation.
Evolving Nature of Warfare and Security
Lieutenant General Singh emphasized that the nature of warfare has fundamentally changed. "Earlier, wars were fought only by uniformed forces. Today, cyber attacks can cripple an entire system without warning," he explained, citing recent disruptions in airport systems and vulnerabilities in air traffic control and railway networks.
The Army Commander stressed that national security now demands close coordination between civil and military agencies. "Modern wars involve the whole nation. Civil administration also shares responsibility," he added, highlighting the expanded scope of national defense in the digital age.
Enhanced Benefits for Veterans
Significant announcements were made regarding veteran welfare schemes. Lieutenant General Singh highlighted that pension disbursal is now conducted through the SPARSH scheme under Digital India, ensuring timely benefits to ex-servicemen. While some pensioners are still being added to the system, the transition promises greater efficiency.
New healthcare initiatives include home delivery of medicines for veterans aged above 70 and the establishment of 20 veterans' hospitals offering both indoor and outdoor facilities. These measures aim to address the specific healthcare needs of aging military personnel.
Agniveer Scheme Updates and Martyrs' Support
Speaking about the Agniveer recruitment system, Lieutenant General Singh revealed that the first batch is expected in 2026, with several changes under consideration. The government has appointed a joint secretary specifically for this scheme, indicating serious attention to its implementation.
Haryana Minister Rao Narbir Singh announced that families of Agniveer soldiers who attain martyrdom will receive Rs 1 crore in assistance. Soldiers injured during war or operations will receive between Rs 15 lakh to Rs 35 lakh, depending on the severity of their injuries.
The minister also made an environmental appeal to veterans, urging each to plant at least one tree to help clean the environment, combining national service with environmental responsibility.
Exemplary Service Recognized
Honorary Subedar Sahib Singh was felicitated for his alertness during Operation Sindoor. According to military officials, he spotted a drone near the Hisar cantonment and immediately alerted the military helpline, enabling timely defensive action that potentially averted a security threat.
The successful rally demonstrated the strong bond between serving military personnel and veterans, while highlighting the ongoing commitment to welfare and security reforms that benefit both current and former members of the armed forces.
