MANGALDAI, Nov 7 � �An ex-Serviceman always enjoys special attention in the society for his integrity, patriotism and knowledge. So, it is the responsibility of each and every ex-Serviceman to deliver the goods for the society. We must develop our self like a role model for our society.�
The above was observed by (retd) Commodore KC Choudhury, Director of the State Sainik Welfare Board, while delivering a speech as the chief guest at a reunion rally for the ex-Servicemen of Darrang and Udalguri at the Germari-based Sainik Rest House here yesterday.
He also highlighted various welfare schemes for the ex-Servicemen undertaken by the State Sainik Welfare Board over the last couple of years, including doubling of the educational scholarship and allotment of a sum of Rs 36 lakh for infrastructure development of the Sainik Rest House and district Sainik Welfare Board office here.
Speaking on the occasion as the distinguished guest, MS Manivannan, Deputy Commissioner as well as chairman of the district Sainik Welfare Board, Darrang recalled the contributions of the ex-Servicemen in providing security to the nation and hoped that such a spirit as seen during the service period would remain alive even after retirement from active service.
In words of praise for the ex-Servicemen present, he remarked, �once a soldier, always a soldier.�
Earlier, addressing several hundred ex-Servicemen and their family members, the Commanding Officer of the Army camp at Chapai asked the ex-Servicemen not to waste time and energy in unproductive work, but to keep themselves fit either in social activities or in jobs.
He also urged them to motivate and guide their wards to join the armed forces. The function where Dimbeswar Das, District Sainik Welfare Officer delivered the welcome address was also attended by Vivek Raj Singh , Superintendent of Police as an invited guest.
The day-long function which began with hoisting of the organisation�s flag was followed by smriti tarpan in memory of the martyrs. The meeting came to an end with the distribution of welfare items like CI sheets, sewing machines, blankets, mattress, etc to more than 40 selected beneficiaries belonging to the ex-Servicemen community.
