Raksha Mantri felicitates war heroes of Assam participated in Indo-Pak War
Assam Governor hails State government for organising felicitation ceremony for war veterans
Reiterates State government’s commitment to the wellbeing of war veterans and ex-servicemen
Guwahati, Rongili Barta: Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh in the presence of Governor Prof. Jagdish Mukhi and Chief Minister Dr. Himanta Biswa Sarma today honoured war veterans who played an indomitable role in the Indo-Pakistan War of 1971, leading to the creation of sovereign Bangladesh at a function held at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in the city today.
As a part of the programme, the State government honoured nine war widows with Rs 10 lakh each, eight number of battle casualties with Rs 5 Lakh each, two number of war prisoners with Rs 2.5 lakh each and 86 number of war veterans with Rs 2 Lakh each.
Speaking at the function, the Governor said, “As India celebrates the Swarnim Vijay Barsh, the initiatives taken by the Assam government to have honoured the soldiers of Assam who fought in the 1971 Bangladesh Liberation War is highly laudable. The supreme role and sacrifices made by the people of Assam will always be etched in the hearts of the many and will remain a source to inspire and motivate several others to contribute towards the nation.”
The Governor also said that war heroes from the State of Assam have been part of our defence forces and many participated in the World War II. Since Independence soldiers from Assam have rendered meritorious and distinguished services. Their heroic achievement during various wars and while combating cross border terrorism are commendable and worth mentioning.
The Governor further said that there are approx 38000 ex-servicemen and 7000 Next of Kins in the State and the Government is ensuring their welfare, rehabilitation and physical wellbeing through 19 Zila Sainik welfare offices under Directorate of Sainik Welfare, Assam. Rajya Sainik Board of Assam also provides education scholarship, marriage grant to the children of ex-servicemen and widows. Pension to the World War II veterans and their widows is also paid from the fund received from the State and Ministry of Defence. The State has also established committees under the Deputy Commissioners in each district for redressal of all issues of ex- servicemen and their dependents on fast track basis.
On the occasion, the Raksha Mantri also released a book ‘The Bravehearts of 1971’. Lt Col (Retd) Quazi Sajjad Ali Zahir, a Bangladeshi veteran of 1971 war who was awarded with a Padma Shri was also present on the occasion.