Governor honours Gallantry Medal Winners and Veterans
Garhwal Post Bureau
NAINITAL, 11 Jun: Lt Gen Gurmit Singh (Retd) participated in the program “An Evening Dedicated to Soldiers” organized by the Department of Sainik Welfare at Raj Bhavan, Nainital, on Wednesday. On this occasion, the Governor honored recipients of gallantry awards and veterans for their commendable service. Appreciation letters were also presented to personnel and officers of the paramilitary forces.
Addressing the gathering, the Governor stated that Uttarakhand is not only known as the ‘Dev Bhoomi’ (Land of the Gods) but also as the ‘Veer Bhoomi’ (Land of the Brave). Numerous brave sons of this land have made the supreme sacrifice for the nation. Uttarakhand contributes approximately 18% of the Indian Armed Forces, showcasing its role as a strong pillar in national defense. The fact that every fifth soldier who sacrifices his life for the nation hails from Uttarakhand is not a coincidence but a reflection of the deep-rooted patriotism in the state’s ethos.
He remarked that the event is a small gesture of gratitude towards our brave soldiers and their families. Their sacrifice is not only invaluable to the present but serves as an eternal inspiration for future generations.
Speaking about the recently conducted “Operation Sindoor,” the Governor praised the strategic capability, technical expertise, and indomitable courage of the Indian Army. He said the operation proves that India is now fully equipped and prepared with modern warfare strategies and technologies. He emphasized the need to stay alert and united in support of the forces.
Highlighting the ongoing contribution of ex-servicemen, the Governor said their service does not end with the uniform. Their discipline, leadership, and patriotism continue to inspire society. Their role in nation-building is priceless and provides invaluable guidance to the youth.
Lt Gen Singh also said that Uttarakhand is not only a land of valor but also a land of vast potential. With its immense natural wealth, the state can be made self-reliant through sustainable and innovative use. He urged veterans and Veer Naris to contribute to the state’s economic development through homestays, honey production, aroma industry, and women’s self-help groups. These initiatives will enhance self-reliance and create new employment opportunities for the youth.
Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, in his video message, said that Uttarakhand is not merely a land of mountains but a land of warriors who have always displayed unmatched bravery. The presence of so many decorated soldiers on one platform is not just an occasion of honor but a powerful symbol of inspiration.
He further added that under the inspiration of the Governor, this unprecedented program held at Raj Bhavan for the first time is a reflection of the state government’s highest priority towards the welfare of soldiers.
During his participation in the program “An Evening Dedicated to Soldiers”, Sainik Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi emphasized that the Indian Army has always showcased unparalleled valor and patriotism in safeguarding the nation’s integrity and sovereignty. He stated that soldiers are our true heroes, and their honor and welfare are our top priorities.
He further shared that the Uttarakhand government is running various welfare schemes for ex-servicemen, families of martyrs, and war widows. These include an increase in the grant amount for gallantry awardees, financial assistance of ₹50 lakh for the families of martyrs, ₹2 lakh housing grant, exemption from house tax and stamp duty, reservation in government jobs, and free bus travel for the families of soldiers.
The Minister added that under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, the welfare of soldiers has been given the highest priority.
Secretary of Sainik Welfare Department Deependra Chaudhary welcomed the attendees.
Cultural performances of patriotic songs by local artists left the audience emotional and immersed the venue in patriotic fervor.
Distinguished guests present included:
First Lady Gurmeet Kaur, GOC Northern Area Lt Gen DG Mishra, Lt Gen GS Bisht, Lt Gen GS Katoch, Air Marshal KD Singh, SSP PN Meena, Kumaun University Vice Chancellor Prof Diwan Singh Rawat, Sainik Welfare Director Brigadier Amrit Lal, along with a large number of gallantry award recipients, ex-servicemen, their families, military officials, and other dignitaries.
Honored Serving and Retired Military Personnel: Col Sheeshpal Singh, 11 RR; Lt Col Sudhir Singh Kalakoti, 5 Gorkha Rifles; Lt Col Nitish Tyagi, Para Regiment; Lt Col Kheem Singh, Grenadiers Regiment; Lt Col Mohit Rawat, 666 Army Aviation Squadron (RO); Major Saurav Singh, 14 Dogra Regiment; Major Arvind Chand, 3 Para Regiment; Major Prasoon Pandey, 1 Ladakh Scouts; Major Rajesh Singh, 19 BN Madras Regiment; Subedar (Retd.) Lalit Mohan Singh, 4 Garhwal Rifles; Havildar Jogendra Singh, 9 Para (SF); Lance Naik Sanjay Bisht (Posthumous), 9 Para; Honorary Subedar Major (Retd) Khadak Singh Karki and Naik (Retd) Jagdish Chandra Joshi.Honored Paramilitary Personnel: Head Constable Manjeet (SSB); Constable Shyam Singh Mer (SSB); Constable Sandeep Kumar (SSB); Constable Manisha (ITBP); Constable Dharmendra Singh (ITBP).Unit Commendation Letters: 7th Battalion Assam Regiment and 418 Field Company Engineers.
