Source: The Sangai Express
Imphal, January 02:
Family members of soldiers who committed the supreme sacrifice at various battlefronts in the service safeguarding the Nation were honoured during an ex-servicemen rally at Leimakhong Army Headquarters today.
The rally organised under the aegis of 57 Mountain Division was attended by a large number of ex-servicemen and their family members.
Activities like medical camp, exhibition on HIV/AIDS awareness, etc were also organised apart from displaying captured arms and ammunition.
Governor Dr SS Sidhu and GOC of 57 Mountain Division Major General GG Dwivedi graced the occasion as chief guest and president and presented gifts to the widows, parents and other family members of the departed soldiers namely Naib Munkhopao Singh (15 Assam Regiment), Lance Naib S Ingocha (Mech Infantry), Kaleshwar (1 Naga Regiment) and Debendra (Artillery).
The dignitaries also gave away awards to two retired officers during the function.
Speaking at the occasion, Dr Sidhu assured various schemes for the welfare of the ex-servicemen in the State and said authorities concerned are consulted to frame a policy for the ex-servicemen as done in other States.
Dr Sidhu lauded the ex-servicemen for their service and contribution in ensuring the territorial integrity of the Nation.
In his speech, Major Gen GG Dwivedi disclosed that a cell has been opened at Mike Sector at Imphal to address the grievances of the ex-servicemen and Veer Naris.
Now they do not have to come all the way to Leima-khong to seek assistance, he said, adding that a similar cell for Army Wives Welfare Association to facilitate interaction with Veer Naris would also be opened shortly.
Taking advantage of the occasion, the ex-servicemen submitted a memorandum detailing a charter of demands to the Governor.
Among others, the demands of the ex-servicemen include revitali- sation of Rajya Sainik Board and opening of Zilla Sainik Boards in each of the districts.
Later the Governor and the GOC interacted with the ex-servicemen.
During the interaction, a retired army man expressed dissatisfaction at way in which the State police have underestimated their (ex-servicemen) status, saying �They do not recognised our ex-servicemen card�.
Taking serious note of the complaint, the Governor assured them of looking into the matter.