Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami honors 1971 war heroes on Vijay Diwas, announces increased ex-gratia, employment benefits, and other welfare measures for soldiers and their families.

On the occasion of Vijay Diwas, Uttarakhand CM Pushkar Singh Dhami paid heartfelt tributes to the martyrs of the 1971 Indo-Pak war at a special ceremony held at Gandhi Park, Dehradun. The event commemorated India’s decisive victory in the war and recognized the immense bravery and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces.

Paying Tribute to Martyrs and Veterans

At the ceremony, CM Pushkar Singh Dhami offered floral tributes at the Shaheed Smarak, honoring the soldiers who gave their lives to defend the nation. He also recognized the veterans of the 1971 war and the families of the fallen soldiers, celebrating their courage and sacrifice, which ensured India’s sovereignty and dignity during the conflict.

Government Support for Sainik Welfare

In a significant move, the CM Pushkar Singh Dhami announced that government vehicles would be provided to the Directorate of Sainik Welfare and the District Sainik Welfare Offices in Dharchula/Didihat, Herbertpur, Pithoragarh, and Haridwar. This initiative aims to enhance the operational efficiency of these offices in providing better services to soldiers and their families.

Remembering Uttarakhand’s Contribution

CM Pushkar Singh Dhami highlighted the pivotal role Uttarakhand played during the 1971 war, noting that nearly 93,000 Pakistani soldiers had surrendered to the Indian Army. He also paid tribute to the 248 brave soldiers from Uttarakhand who made the ultimate sacrifice and the 74 soldiers from the state who were honored with gallantry awards for their exceptional bravery. Dhami emphasized that nearly every household in Uttarakhand has a member serving in the armed forces.

Strengthening India’s Defense Capabilities

The Chief Minister also spoke about India’s growing defense capabilities under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He mentioned significant initiatives like Operation Sindhu, and the development of indigenous missile systems such as Akash and BrahMos, stressing that the nation is now capable of responding decisively to any threats.

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Welfare Measures for Soldiers and Their Families

As part of the welfare measures for soldiers, CM Dhami announced several new initiatives aimed at supporting the families of martyrs and veterans:

• Increase in Ex-Gratia: The ex-gratia amount for the families of martyrs has been increased from ₹10 lakh to ₹50 lakh.

• Financial Assistance for Gallantry Award Winners: Enhanced financial support for soldiers who have been recognized with gallantry awards, including the Param Vir Chakra and Mention in Dispatches.

• Government Employment: A provision for government employment for one family member of martyrs, with the application period extended from two to five years.

• Free Travel: Serving and ex-servicemen will be provided free travel in state-run buses.

• Rebate in Property Purchases: A 25% rebate in stamp duty for property purchases up to ₹25 lakh for soldiers and their families.

• Pre-Employment Training & Marriage Assistance: Special schemes for the daughters of martyrs, including pre-employment training and marriage assistance.

• Sainik Dham Construction: A grand “Sainik Dham” will be built in Guniyal village, Dehradun, as a tribute to the soldiers.

Honoring the Spirit of Service

Sainik Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi also joined the ceremony, paying tribute to the sacrifices of soldiers. He emphasized that approximately 4,000 soldiers laid down their lives during the 1971 war, with 248 of them hailing from Uttarakhand. Joshi praised the state government’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of soldiers and their families, acknowledging the substantial increase in the ex-gratia amount and other initiatives aimed at resolving the issues faced by armed forces personnel.

About Vijay Diwas

Vijay Diwas is observed each year to commemorate India’s victory in the 1971 war and the valor of the soldiers who fought for the country’s honor. The day serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by our armed forces to protect the nation’s integrity and sovereignty, inspiring future generations to carry forward the spirit of patriotism.