Fifth Indian Armed Forces Veterans Day was celebrated today as recognition of the services rendered by the first Commander-in-Chief of Indian Armed Forces, Field Marshal KM Cariappa, OBE who retired on 14 Jan 1953.
Wreath Laying Ceremony was organised today morning at National War Memorial in New Delhi with Vice Admiral R Hari Kumar, CISC, Headquarter Integrated Defence Staff paying homage to the martyrs in the presence of veterans.
A Veterans Meet was also organised at Raina Auditorium, APS Dhaula Kuan with Admiral Karambir Singh, Chief of Naval Staff as the Chief Guest for the event. Gen MM Naravane, COAS and Air Marshal RK Bhadouria, CAS were also present for the event. The event was organised following COVID protocols.
Speaking on the occasion, the Army Chief highlighted some important welfare measures undertaken by various welfare departments during the year amidst the COVID pandemic. He also briefed the veterans on the Swarnim Vijay Varsh being celebrated through the year to honour our veterans who gave us the victory in 1971 war.
Admiral Karambir reiterated the resolve of Services for the well being of veterans and assured them that their valuable suggestions were also welcome.
Admiral Karambir Singh also released the ‘Swarnim Vijay Varsh’ song dedicated to the valour and courage of our brave soldiers during the 1971 War.
The song has been written by Kumar Vishwas and composed by Chris Powell. It has been sung by Romy. The Indian Army released the coveted ‘Samaan’ magazine and Indian Air Force released the ‘Vayu Samvedna’ magazine on the occasion. These magazines are exclusively for Veterans and their Next of Kin.