Pune: ‘Diwali Faral For Soldiers’ Program To Deliver 7000 Sweets And Snack Boxes At Borders

Pune, 5th November 2023: For the upcoming Diwali festival, the Sneh-Seva and Maitreya Charitable Society, based in Pune, has organized the ‘Diwali Faral for Soldiers’ initiative, delivering approximately 7000 sweets and snack boxes to soldiers stationed in remote border areas of Northern and Northeastern India.

Now in its 28th year under the ‘Sainik Sneh’ project, a formal program was conducted by Sneh-Seva today at Nivara Old Age home in Navi Peth, Pune. Soldiers from various units received sweet boxes from the distinguished guests Lt. Gen. Madhuri Kanitkar (Retd), who is now the Vice-Chancellor of Maharashtra State University of Health Sciences, and her husband Lt. Gen. Rajeev Kanitkar (Retd). Also present were Shrikrushna Chitale, head of Chitale Bandhu Mithaiwale, Nilima Bhadbhade, President of Sneh Seva, Vice President Dr. Radha Sangamnerkar, Secretary Sunita Wagh, Treasurer Arvind Bhadkamkar, and Dr. Dinesh Kumar Pande, the Program head of Sainik Sneh.

Lt. Gen Rajeev Kanitkar emphasized the importance of self-discipline and responsibility among citizens, stating, “To fulfill the Indian government’s goal of becoming a developed nation by 2047, every citizen must learn self-discipline and responsibility from the defense forces. When every citizen imbibes these qualities, our country will indeed become developed.”

He shed light on the logistical challenges faced by the Indian Army in the northern regions, particularly the difficulties in supplying essentials to remote border posts due to unpredictable weather conditions, disrupted road connectivity, communication challenges, and climatic obstacles.

Lt Gen Madhuri Kanitkar praised the organizers and touched upon Operation CO-JEET, a collaborative effort by all three Indian defense forces during the COVID-19 pandemic. She highlighted the challenges and successes of setting up COVID treatment beds and restoring oxygen supplies.

Subedar Kailas Satpute, a representative of Indian army soldiers, expressed the profound impact of receiving gifts, sweets, letters, and greeting cards, especially for those stationed in remote areas away from family and unable to celebrate festivals.

The event was moderated by Sudha Javadekar, and Prof Shyam Bhurke extended a vote of thanks.

The ‘Diwali Faral for Soldiers’ initiative not only brings joy to soldiers during the festive season but also reinforces the societal support they receive, creating a positive impact on their morale.