SHILLONG, Feb 15: Around 1,200 retired defence personnel and kin of soldiers who laid down their lives in the line of duty attended the rally for Ex-Servicemen organised by the Indian Army and Rajya Sainik Board, Meghalaya, at Assam Regimental Centre, Happy Valley here on Tuesday.
Chief Minister Conrad Sangma, who was also present for the programme, announced that the state government will enhance the cash award for Param Vir Chakra awardees from the existing Rs 1 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, and the Annuity to Param Vir Chakra awardees from RS 1,000 per month to RS 10,000 per month.
The chief minister was accompanied by GAD Minister, Sniawbhalang Dhar.
The CM further announced that ex-gratia to the next of kin of martyrs and disabled soldiers will be enhanced from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh by Government of Meghalaya and House tax applicable to ex-servicemen/widows residing in Meghalaya including the municipal areas will also be exempted.
Addressing the gathering, Conrad also lauded the contribution of the veterans of Meghalaya and the North East, who have immensely contributed towards the security as well as prosperity of the country. Moreover, he also appreciated the initiative by Army and Rajya Sainik Board for coming forward and resolving grievances of ex-servicemen.
In addition, the CM also informed that sufficient space will be provided for the ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme) Polyclinic in Tura, West Garo Hills.
The government has also sanctioned Rs 4 crore for the construction of Sainik Rest House in Shillong, work for which will start at the earliest, Conrad informed. The Sainik Rest House will also accommodate the office of the Director of Sainik Welfare.
On the day, the CM also presented ex-gratia and gallantry award winners’ cheques and gifts to selected ex-servicemen and Veer Naris.
A medical camp was also organized along with the rally to address various medical issues of the veterans and their families.
All veterans were briefed on various welfare schemes of the central and state government during the event.
The objective of the rally was to make contact with ex-servicemen in a bid to resolve their grievances.
Air Marshal AP Singh, AVSM, SASO Eastern Air Command, Lt. Gen. KC Panchanathan, AVSM, GOC 101 Area, Deputy Commissioner of East Khasi Hills, Isawanda Laloo, were among the dignitaries present at the function.