NATION HONOURS VALOUR AND SERVICE OF EX-SERVICEMEN ON 10TH DEFENCE FORCES VETERANS’ DAY The nation paid heartfelt tributes to the courage, sacrifices and unwavering service of ex-servicemen on the occasion of the 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day, observed on January 14, 2026. A series of events, including veterans’ rallies, wreath-laying ceremonies, grievance redressal counters and facilitation help desks, were organised across the country to mark the day. Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh graced the main समारोह at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt, which saw the participation of around 2,500 veterans from Delhi and the National Capital Region. Addressing the gathering, he described ex-servicemen as the living pillars of national consciousness, symbols of collective courage and a constant source of inspiration for future generations. He urged veterans to continue guiding the youth, mentoring Agniveers and young soldiers, supporting civil administration during emergencies, promoting social harmony and strengthening patriotism at the grassroots level. Highlighting India’s journey towards becoming a strong, self-reliant and developed nation, the Raksha Mantri said the experience, leadership and values of veterans are invaluable national assets. He stressed that their active participation in areas such as education, skill development, disaster management, community leadership and innovation can leave a lasting impact on society, especially the youth. Shri Rajnath Singh paid special tributes to the ex-servicemen who served as part of the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka nearly four decades ago. He acknowledged their extraordinary courage and sacrifices, noting that the present government, under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, is committed to recognising their contributions with the respect they deserve, including honouring them at national memorials. Commending veterans for their selfless service to national security and nation-building, the Raksha Mantri remarked that a soldier never truly retires, as the spirit of service and patriotism remains lifelong. He reiterated the government’s strong commitment to veterans’ welfare, citing key initiatives such as the implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP), strengthening of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), expansion of healthcare services to remote areas and increased use of telemedicine. He also highlighted efforts to ensure a dignified and self-reliant post-retirement life for veterans through resettlement, skill development, employment opportunities, support for entrepreneurship and access to welfare schemes. Emphasising the importance of honouring fallen heroes, he noted that memorials such as the National War Memorial serve as lasting reminders of the supreme sacrifices made for the nation. Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Smt Sukriti Likhi, addressing the gathering, said Veterans’ Day is not merely ceremonial but a reaffirmation of the enduring bond between the nation and its soldiers. She underlined the scale of responsibility involved, with nearly 60,000 soldiers retiring annually, adding that ensuring dignity, respect and timely services for veterans and their families remains a national duty. Senior defence leadership, including the Chief of Defence Staff, the three Service Chiefs, senior officers, former Chiefs and veterans, attended the event. On the occasion, annual veterans’ magazines of the Army, Navy and Air Force were released. Similar commemorative events were held across multiple cities and states, with Rajya and Zila Sainik Boards organising programmes and help desks nationwide to honour the dedication and sacrifices of India’s ex-servicemen.

CHIEF OF DEFENCE STAFF INSPIRES NCC CADETS AT REPUBLIC DAY CAMP 2026, CALLS THEM FUTURE LEADERS OF VIKSIT BHARAT Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) General Anil Chauhan visited the National Cadet Corps (NCC) Republic Day Camp (RDC) at Delhi Cantt on January 13, 2026, where he interacted with NCC cadets and officers and motivated the young participants. Expressing pride in attending the RDC for the fourth consecutive year, he praised the cadets for their high standards, discipline and enthusiasm, noting that each year brings renewed energy and a strong sense of patriotism. Highlighting the importance of vision, determination and choosing the right path at an early stage, the CDS told the cadets that correct choices lead to the right destination. Sharing insights from his own professional journey, he encouraged the cadets to consider a career in the armed forces and contribute towards building a Samridhh, Sashakt and Surakshit Bharat by 2047. Addressing the cadets as the “future leaders of Viksit Bharat,” he urged them to take responsibility for shaping the nation’s future. General Chauhan underlined the significance of January as a month of national pride and remembrance, marked by important occasions such as National Youth Day on January 12, Veteran’s Day on January 14, Army Day on January 15, Parakram Diwas on January 23, Republic Day on January 26 and Martyr’s Day on January 30. He said these days reflect India’s independence, constitutional values and the true spirit of nationalism. The CDS appreciated the smart and coordinated Guard of Honour presented by the Army, Navy and Air Wing cadets, as well as the melodious band performance by cadets of Sainik School Ghorakhal, Uttarakhand. He commended the vibrant cultural programme and the cadets’ efforts to spread social awareness through the ‘Flag Area’ activities. He also lauded the Aero and Naval model briefings and the drone display, highlighting the cadets’ discipline, innovation and technological skills. Concluding his address, General Chauhan urged the cadets to act with determination, work towards their goals without delay and maintain a positive and optimistic outlook in life.

INDIAN NAVY LEADS FIRST-EVER MEGA MEDICAL CAMP IN LAKSHADWEEP The Government of India remains firmly committed to delivering quality healthcare to every citizen, with special focus on those living in remote and island territories, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh said on January 13, 2026. He was virtually addressing a nearly week-long Joint Services Multi-Speciality Mega Medical Camp organised by the Indian Navy at Indira Gandhi Hospital, Kavaratti, marking the first such initiative in the Lakshadweep islands. Describing the camp as a remarkable example of the Indian Navy’s contribution to nation-building and humanitarian outreach beyond maritime security, the Raksha Mantri noted that a Tri-Services team from the Armed Forces Medical Services brought advanced diagnostics and specialised medical care directly to the local population. The services included planned surgical procedures and cataract operations. Nearly 50 sight-restoring surgeries were successfully conducted in just two days, significantly improving the quality of life for beneficiaries across the Lakshadweep archipelago. Chief of the Naval Staff highlighted that the camp stood out for its “synergy, scope and scale,” underscoring the effectiveness of joint-service collaboration in delivering comprehensive healthcare in remote regions.