Rajnath Singh to Serve as Chief Guest at Veterans Day Celebrations in Delhi

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh will attend the Veterans Day celebrations in Delhi on January 14, honouring the contributions of veterans. Events include rallies and help desks by SPARSH and other organisations.

Veterans Day celebrations on Wednesday will feature ex-servicemen rallies, grievance redressal counters, and facilitation help desks by the System for Pension Administration Raksha (SPARSH), according to officials. The main event at Manekshaw Centre in Delhi Cantonment will be attended by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and veterans from Delhi-NCR, the defence ministry announced on Tuesday.

The 10th Defence Forces Veterans Day will be observed on January 14, honouring the bravery, sacrifices, and dedicated service of veterans who have served the nation with distinction. A range of events and outreach programmes will take place nationwide to mark this occasion, officials stated.

Veterans Day Events Across India

Commemorations will occur across India at 34 Rajya Sainik Boards in various states and Union Territories, supported by 434 Zila Sainik Boards. These events will include veterans rallies and the establishment of grievance redressal counters and facilitation help desks by SPARSH, the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), and Record Offices of the Army, Navy, and Indian Air Force to address veterans' concerns.

Employment agencies, defence and government welfare organisations, and banks will also set up stalls to provide information and assistance to veterans and their families. These efforts aim to support veterans and their dependents effectively.

Honouring Field Marshal K M Cariappa

Defence Forces Veterans Day is celebrated annually on January 14 to honour Field Marshal K M Cariappa's legacy. He was the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, retiring on this day in 1953. A significant figure in India's military history, Field Marshal Cariappa led forces to victory in the 1947 war, establishing a lasting legacy of service, discipline, and patriotism.

The day reaffirms the nation's deep respect and gratitude towards its veterans while strengthening bonds among serving personnel, veterans, and citizens. This observance highlights the enduring connection between those who serve and those who have served.

With inputs from PTI