Pune, 5th November 2023: As the Diwali festival approaches, the Sneh-Seva and Maitreya Charitable Society, based in Pune, is gearing up for its annual ‘Diwali Faral for Soldiers’ initiative. This heartwarming project is set to deliver approximately 7000 boxes of sweets and snacks to soldiers stationed in remote border areas of Northern and Northeastern India.
In its 28th year, the ‘Diwali Faral for Soldiers’ program, conducted under the ‘Sainik Sneh’ project, had a formal event at Nivara Old Age home in Navi Peth, Pune. Soldiers from various units received sweet boxes from distinguished guests, including Lt. Gen. Madhuri Kanitkar (Retd), the Vice-Chancellor of Maharashtra State University of Health Sciences, and her husband, Lt. Gen. Rajeev Kanitkar (Retd). The event was also attended by Shrikrushna Chitale, head of Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale, Nilima Bhadbhade, President of Sneh Seva, Vice President Dr. Radha Sangamnerkar, Secretary Sunita Wagh, Treasurer Arvind Bhadkamkar, and Dr. Dinesh Kumar Pande, the Program head of Sainik Sneh.
During the event, Lt. Gen. Rajeev Kanitkar emphasized the importance of self-discipline and responsibility among citizens. He mentioned that to achieve the Indian government’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, every citizen must learn self-discipline and responsibility from the defense forces. When these qualities are embraced by all citizens, the country will undoubtedly progress.
Lt. Gen. Kanitkar shed light on the logistical challenges faced by the Indian Army in the northern regions, particularly the difficulties in supplying essentials to remote border posts due to unpredictable weather conditions, disrupted road connectivity, communication challenges, and climatic obstacles.
Lt. Gen. Madhuri Kanitkar praised the organizers and touched upon Operation CO-JEET, a collaborative effort by all three Indian defense forces during the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlighted the challenges and successes of setting up COVID treatment beds and restoring oxygen supplies.
Subedar Kailas Satpute, a representative of Indian army soldiers, expressed the profound impact of receiving gifts, sweets, letters, and greeting cards, especially for those stationed in remote areas away from family and unable to celebrate festivals.
The event was moderated by Sudha Javadekar, and Prof. Shyam Bhurke extended a vote of thanks to all the participants.
The ‘Diwali Faral for Soldiers’ initiative not only brings joy to soldiers during the festive season but also reinforces the societal support they receive, creating a positive impact on their morale.
