₹3 cr earmarked for ESM Martyrs' Memorial: CM
Source: Chronicle News Service / DIPR / PIB
Imphal, March 06 2023:
Chief minister N Biren Singh has announced that the state government has earmarked Rs 3 crore for setting up a Martyrs' Memorial at the ex-servicemen office complex, so that people can show their respect and pay homage to the martyrs every year.
Speaking as chief guest of the Mega Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rally organised by Red Shield Division of Spear Corps at Koirengei on Monday, CM Biren expressed gratitude to the Indian Army for protecting the nation and putting everything behind including their families to safeguard and serve the country.
As such, it should be the responsibility of the people to show them respect, honour and to support them, he said.
Recounting the sacrifices and contribution of the Army personnel from the state including major Jyotin's sacrifice in Afghanistan and major Bob Khathing's contribution in nation building, he maintained that construction of memorial site will be taken up on war footing so that tributes can be paid to the bravehearts on the occasion of Republic Day and Independence Day.
Reflecting on Prime Minister Narendra Modi's 'Nation First' message, the CM said that each citizen should understand that we are safe when the country is safe and so we must always think of the nation first.
N Biren also conveyed that a girls-only Sainik School will be opened soon in the state in Bishnupur district with the state government earmarking of 15 acres of land for this purpose.
The school will become functional within two years, he said.
N Biren also thanked Union home minister Amit Shah and defence minister Rajnath Singh for giving approval for conducting of 'Agniveer' recruitment rally in Manipur and assured that state government will give priority to 'Agniveers' during government job recruitment after their retirement.
Informing about various welfare schemes for ESM undertaken by the state government, he announced enhancement of cash rewards to gallantry medal awardees and infrastructure development projects of Rajya Sainik Board.
Speaking on the changing times in the state, the CM emphasised that today the relation between the people and security forces has improved tremendously and there is harmony.
On the other hand, Red Shield Division deputy GOC brigadier Neil John said that Manipur, a vibrant region with a rich culture of 2000 years has historically been a land of valour and sacrifice.
The contribution of the brave sons and daughters of Manipur in nation-building and the Indian Army is unparalleled and second to none, he added.
The event was also participated by retired Lt Gen LN Singh, retired Maj Gen Dinesh Sharma, serving and retired senior officers, 'Veer Naris', widows and ESM, among others.
Meanwhile, as part of the event, the CM felicitated the 'Veer Naris', veterans, widows and families.
On the occasion, Grievance Cells from Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions), Record Offices of various regiments and services, SPARSE & SUVIGYA cell were set up to ascertain and resolve the issues faced by the veterans and their families.
Information Stalls of Army Recruitment Office, ECHS Polyclinic, Director General of Resettlement, Skill Development & Social Welfare Department, Government of Manipur; RSB & ZSB: UdChalo, SB1, Axis, ICICI, PNB & HDFC Banks, were also set up at the rally site and a special medical camp organised with various specialists to provide on the spot medical care and consultancy to over a thousand veterans and war widows.