Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami participated in the gratitude and dialogue program organized by the Uttarakhand Ex-Serviceman Organisation at Doon Sainik Institute, Garhi Cantt, Dehradun, on Sunday.
During the event, the brave women, along with the officers and soldiers of the Ex-Serviceman Organisation, expressed their gratitude to the Chief Minister for several significant measures. These include increasing the ex-gratia grant amount for martyred soldiers from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 50 lakh on Kargil Vijay Diwas, extending the period for applying for government jobs to the families of martyred soldiers from two years to five years, and providing job appointments for the dependents of martyrs in various departments beyond Group ‘C’ and Group ‘D’ in District Magistrate’s offices. Additionally, leave has been granted to contract workers, including Upanal employees, in the Sainik Welfare Department.
The Chief Minister emphasized that soldiers are not only protectors of the Himalayas but also guardians of the environment. He urged the ex-servicemen to support the ‘Har Ghar Tiranga’ and ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaigns and announced the construction of Sainik Vishram in Mussoorie. At the program, the women honored the Chief Minister, and in turn, he honored them.
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Dhami noted that the state government is offering employment in state services to one dependent of soldiers from the Army and Paramilitary Forces who die in combat, based on their educational qualifications. To date, 17 dependents have been employed in state service. Uttarakhand is also the only state where soldiers decorated with gallantry awards receive a lump sum annual amount for life. The lump sum for those awarded the Vishisht Seva Medal has been increased, and the monthly grant for ex-soldiers of World War II and war widows has been raised from Rs 8,000 to Rs 10,000.
The Chief Minister praised the courage and bravery of the Indian Army, highlighting Uttarakhand’s dual identity as Devbhoomi (Land of Gods) and Veerbhoomi (Land of Heroes). He acknowledged the immense contributions of soldiers and military families from Uttarakhand, and announced plans for a grand military Dham.
Dhami also praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for his efforts to boost the morale of the army, noting that the Prime Minister celebrates Holi, Diwali, and other special occasions with the armed forces. He credited the Prime Minister’s leadership and the One Rank One Pension scheme for enhancing soldier morale.
Reflecting on the state’s achievements, Dhami mentioned that Uttarakhand has secured the top position in the Sustainable Development Goals issued by NITI Aayog, and he emphasized the need to maintain and improve upon this standing. He assured that continuous efforts are being made for the state’s overall development.
In closing, the Chief Minister condemned the atrocities on minorities in Bangladesh, expressing concern over domestic issues such as casteism. He called for collective reflection and mutual unity, urging ex-servicemen to contribute to the nation’s awakening.
(WITH INPUTS FROM ANI)
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