Pune: Air Force Station Pune Hosts 10th Defence Forces Veterans Day; Over 4,200 Ex-Servicemen Participate
Pune, 14th January 2026: The 10th Defence Forces Veterans Day was commemorated with solemnity and pride at Air Force Station Pune on Wednesday, with over 4,200 veterans from the Indian Army, Navy and Air Force gathering to honour the legacy of India’s armed forces and their enduring contribution to national security.
The day marks the retirement anniversary of Field Marshal K.M. Cariappa, OBE, India’s first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, who stepped down from service on January 14, 1953. Widely regarded as one of the architects of the modern Indian Army, Cariappa played a decisive role during the 1947 conflict and laid the foundations of military discipline, professionalism and patriotism in independent India.
A wreath-laying ceremony was held as part of the observance to pay homage to soldiers who laid down their lives in the line of duty. The ceremony underscored the nation’s respect for its fallen heroes and reaffirmed the bond between serving personnel, veterans and civilians.
The event was graced by Maharashtra Higher and Technical Education Minister Chandrakant Patil as the Chief Guest. Senior defence leaders present included Lieutenant General Dhiraj Seth, PVSM, AVSM, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command; Vice Admiral Anil Jaggi, Commandant, National Defence Academy; Air Vice Marshal Gurjot Singh Bhullar, Senior Officer-in-Charge Administration, South Western Air Command; and Air Commodore Satbir Singh Rai, Air Officer Commanding, Air Force Station Pune, along with several other senior officers.
Addressing the gathering, the Chief Guest acknowledged the discipline, sacrifice and selfless service rendered by veterans and assured continued support from the government for their welfare and rehabilitation.
Senior commanders highlighted multiple initiatives aimed at improving the quality of life of veterans and their families. Particular emphasis was placed on creating awareness about pensions, grievance redressal mechanisms, financial assistance schemes, and the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS).
Veterans were encouraged to directly interact with officials, raise concerns and share suggestions, enabling a two-way dialogue focused on resolving long-pending issues efficiently.
Dedicated sessions were conducted by representatives from the Directorate of Air Veterans, the Principal Controller of Defence Accounts, and the Zila Sainik Kalyan Board, providing guidance on entitlements, documentation and support services.
The role of the Indian Army’s Southern Command in strengthening tri-service veteran welfare was also highlighted. Officials outlined initiatives such as ECHS outreach programmes, welfare camps, assisted life certificate renewal, targeted support for widows and elderly veterans, and close coordination with civil authorities to reduce delays and improve service delivery.
The Veterans Day observance concluded with a reaffirmation of the armed forces’ commitment to expanding outreach, strengthening grievance redressal systems and ensuring that veterans and their families continue to receive dignity, care and sustained support in recognition of their service to the nation.
