Leimakhong hosts ex-servicemen rally
Source: The Sangai Express

Imphal, December 17 2017: An ex-servicemen (ESM) rally was conducted by Red Shield Division at Leimakhong Military Garrison today .

The rally was participated by more than 1100 ESM, Veer Naris and children .

The rally was graced by retired Lieutenant General K Himalay Singh and Deputy General Officer Commanding Brig SKS Chauhan apart from other Civil and military dignitaries .

All the ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, widows of deceased soldiers and their dependents were at the outset welcomed and the World War II veterans, gallantry award winners and Veer Naris in particular were felicitated .

Retired Lieutenant General K Himalay Singh expressed that welfare of ESM, Veer Naris and World War II veterans will be given top most priority .

He stressed on wide publicity of various Central, State and Army welfare schemes for the ESM .

Praising the dedication and hard work of the retired ranks and files of the armed forces, he said that it was this league of extraordinary people who by setting an example in the society, acted as catalysts in remoulding it .

He said that many Manipuri have contributed immensely for the country, starting from World War II to the Indo-Pak as well as the Kargil war .

Manipur has around 7000 ex-servicemen at present but most of the benefit programme are not provided to them as such they are not recognised/ respected as they should be, by the public, he added and urged the ex-servicemen as well their families to pressure the Government to provide the required benefits .

On the other hand, Konsam Himalay said that the Government has approved the appointment of a retired Brigadier or Colonel as the secretary of Rajya Sainik Board and a notification will be issued at the earliest regarding the appointment.

He conveyed that if a candidate with such criteria, is appointed, there will be proper communication with the GOC of the 57th Mountain Division or IGAR (S) and the condition of the ex-servicemen will be improved .

The Red Shield Division got together with the State Administration and corporate house with 40 Stalls for the ESM and also provided a platform for ESM to register to project 'Suvigya'.

A book on the benefits meant for ex-servicemen was also released at the event .

An NGO, Flags of Honour Foundation, also handed over around Rs 2 lakh to around six ex-servicemen as a part of the event.

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