New Delhi: Chief of Army Staff General Upendra Dwivedi on Wednesday said the Indian Army is actively integrating veterans into the national security framework while strengthening welfare, healthcare and resettlement programmes for ex servicemen and their families. Speaking at an event marking Armed Forces Veterans Day, he emphasised that the contribution of veterans continues long after they leave active service.
The Army chief said former service personnel have played an important role in safeguarding the nation and contributing to governance, industry and social development. He noted that veterans have consistently stepped forward whenever the country has faced challenges, reflecting a deeply rooted sense of duty and national responsibility.
Armed Forces Veterans Day is observed every year on January 14 to honour the legacy of Field Marshal K M Cariappa, India’s first Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces, who retired on this day in 1953. The occasion recognises the lifelong service and commitment of military veterans.
Highlighting the Army’s growing welfare ecosystem, General Dwivedi spoke about Project NAMAN, launched in August 2024 to provide dedicated support to defence pensioners and their families. He said the initiative has reached a significant milestone with the inauguration of its 100th centre. The Army plans to expand the network to nearly 200 centres by January next year, including in remote and underserved regions.
Describing the armed forces as one extended family, the Army chief said the community comprises nearly 1.25 crore members, including serving personnel, veterans and dependents. He stressed that veterans are being systematically engaged in strategic and operational planning through structured initiatives such as Shaurya Sampark.
He said the involvement of veterans in areas such as strategic discussions, war gaming, red teaming and operational planning has delivered results beyond expectations, particularly during recent military exercises and operations.
On resettlement and employment, the Army chief said more than 17,000 veterans secured jobs this year through the Army Welfare Placement Organisation, taking the total number of placements to over 1.5 lakh. Urging veterans to remain actively connected with society, he said their experience and skills would continue to strengthen the nation, adding that while economic power drives growth, military strength ultimately shapes national outcomes.
