From Our Correspondent
TURA, Dec 8: General Administration Department Minister Sosthenes Sohtun on Monday assured the state government’s commitment to strengthening welfare measures for Meghalaya’s veteran community.
Sohtun was addressing a gathering at the inaugural programme of the two-day ex-servicemen rally at SMELC, Dakopgre, Tura, which was jointly organised by HQ 101 Area, the Assam Regiment Centre and the Directorate of Sainik Welfare, with support from Ex-Servicemen Associations of Tikrikilla, Garobadha, Tura and Ampati.
The event, which drew hundreds of veterans, Veer Naris and their families, was attended by General Officer Commanding (GOC) 101 Area, Lt Gen Mohit Wadhwa, as the guest of honour, alongside Meghalaya Lokayukta Chairperson, CP Marak, and Director of Sainik Welfare, Colonel (Retd) Darryl Hopkins.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, Sohtun expressed deep appreciation for the services rendered by the armed forces.
He said the programme served as a reminder of society’s collective responsibility to honour, support and uplift those who have dedicated much to the service of the country.
The minister also praised the efforts of the Department of Sainik Welfare and the Zila Sainik Welfare Offices, while assuring the government’s resolve to work with them to further strengthen welfare initiatives.
On the other hand, Lt Gen Wadhwa extended his gratitude to the veterans for their unwavering commitment and sacrifice, and urged them to make full use of the facilities set up for their well-being.
Similarly, Col (Retd) Hopkins highlighted the ongoing initiatives for the welfare of the ESM community.
“This programme reflects the state government’s continued effort to ensure that every veteran in the state receives the support, care and recognition they truly deserve. From welfare assistance to health support and rehabilitation initiatives, the state government is committed to strengthening the system that safeguards the well-being of all the ESM,” he said.
He added that the state government is actively considering the establishment of an integrated guest house facility in Garo Hills that would include the Zila Sainik Welfare Office, a CSD outlet and a Chest Clinic.
It may be mentioned that the rally featured a wide range of welfare activities such as medical services staffed by specialists from military hospitals, a CSD mobile counter for essential goods, SPARSH pension redressal counters, a legal-aid clinic and an army recruitment cell.
On the occasion, Veer Naris and veterans were felicitated by the chief guest and other dignitaries for their service.
