Pune, 15 February 2024 – The ‘Samman Evam Samadhan’ Mega Rally for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) commenced with great fervor at the Milkha Singh Sports Complex in Pune under the auspices of the Southern Command. The event, held on 15th February, aimed to address the concerns of ex-servicemen and witnessed active participation from approximately 3000 veterans on-site, with an additional 40,000 joining online through Video Conferencing from 58 stations across eleven states.
Lieutenant General AK Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, SM, VSM, Army Commander of the Southern Command, graced the occasion as the chief guest. In his address, he emphasized the paramount importance of honoring and supporting ex-servicemen. Lt Gen AK Singh highlighted the numerous welfare-oriented initiatives undertaken by the Southern Command across eleven states.
The rally focused on providing assistance to ex-servicemen, widows, veteran wives, veteran mothers, and veteran fathers in the district regarding pension, ECHS, CSD canteen, and other related matters. Additional Guest speakers included Additional CGDA Mrs Devika Raghuvanshi, IDAS, and Director DSW, Maharashtra, Brig Rajesh Gaikwad (Retd).
The issues related to the implementation and problems associated with SPARSH were highlighted by Additional CGDA Mrs Devika Raghuvanshi, assuring that PCDA (P) Prayagraj was working diligently to iron out any glitches in the SPARSH system. Brig Rajesh Gaikwad (Retd) provided an overview of the welfare schemes implemented in Maharashtra and the initiatives taken by the Rajya Sainik board to provide more welfare-oriented schemes for the ESM and their dependents.
During the event, ten selected ex-servicemen were presented with employment certificates, organized by Headquarters Southern Command in coordination with the AWPO. Financial assistance was also provided to needy veterans who, for various reasons, were not in receipt of pensions, under the ages of MP and PS Dte.
The ‘Samman Evam Samadhan’ Mega Rally will continue on 16th February at the same venue, and the stalls established will remain open to provide extended grievance redressal avenues.
Notable attendees from IHQ of MoD(Army), including representatives from ECHS, AWHO, AWPN, and Record Offices, graced the occasion. Stalls were set up to facilitate discussions and address concerns related to SPARSH, Pension, OROP, ECHS, canteen services, among other key areas.
The resounding success of the ‘Samman Evam Samadhan’ Mega Rally in Pune reflects the commitment to fostering a supportive environment for esteemed ex-servicemen, ensuring their concerns are acknowledged and addressed effectively.
