CM vows Army memorial in state by next year
Source: Chronicle News Service

Imphal, January 14 2024: While announcing that the state government has earmarked Rs 3 crore for the construction of a memorial site of the Indian Army in recognition of the sacrifice made for the security of the country, chief minister N Biren Singh has informed that the memorial complex would be completed and handed over to the people by January 14 next year.

Speaking at the commemoration function of the 8th Armed Forces Veterans' Day at the Banquet Hall of the 1st Battalion Manipur Rifles, here on Sunday, the chief minister informed that Manipur alone has around 12,000 army veterans, He said that there were around 400 Navy officers and personnel from the state during the launch of the INS Imphal with commander of the war ship also a Manipuri.

The state has the highest number of officers serving in the armed forces in terms of population with many still serving the nation in the armed forces.

Considering the selfless service and sacrifices made by the armed forces for the nation, Prime Minister Narendra Modi advocated commemoration of the Armed Forces Veterans Day every year since 2017, the CM said, adding that it is the first time the function is being organised by the state government.

Highlighting the welfare measures taken up by the state government for those who served in the armed forces, CM Biren informed that 5 percent reservation has been earmarked for the ex-servicemen during recruitment by the state government in addition to age relaxation of 5 years for appearing in the recruitment process under Manipur Public Service Commission.

Further stating that the state has so far produced two Lieutenant Generals, despite its small population, he expressed elation of being a Manipuri and expressed hope that Manipur will contribute many officers to the Indian army.

The chief minister also recalled the valour and sacrifice made by Manipuri army officers including Major Laishram Jyotin Singh and Major Bob Khathing.

While conveying that the state government is committed to take good care of families of army veterans and personnel who have sacrificed their lives for the nation, the chief minister pledged to look into the condition of the veterans and Veer Naris and ensure that they avail benefits of the various schemes of the government.

Biren also recounted the contribution of Field Marshal KM Cariappa and acknowledged hardships faced by the personnel of armed forces deployed in the state while rendering service to the citizens.

Maintaining that the present crisis in Manipur is due to involvement of foreign hands, he appealed all the communities settling in the state to unitedly face the challenge.

Armed Forces Veterans Day is observed every year on January 14, the day of retirement of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army.

The day is also observed to pay respects to the ex-servicemen for their selfless duty and sacrifices and reinforce solidarity towards the next of kin of these brave hearts.

During the programme, the chief minister felicitated distinguished and gallantry award winning veterans and Veer Naris.

As a part of the observance patriotic song was presented by artistes of Shri Shri Bal Mukunda Dev Government Music College.

Presided over by Forest minister Th Biswajit, the function was also attended by Speaker Th Satyabrata, ministers, Member of Parliament, MLAs and top ranking officials of civil as well as police.

Later, in the afternoon, the chief minister visited the families of the four persons who were found killed at Haotak Mapalok Ching in Bishnupur district and shared solidarity to suffering of the bereaved family.

He also assured that the government will extend every possible assistance to the families.

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