Chetwode Motto: Back to Basics

LEST WE FORGET OUR MEN
An Officer’s responsibility towards his Men does NOT end with his retirement; it is a lifelong commitment.
We, Officers, owe it to our Men; for having had the honour & privilege of leading them, while in service.

Lunch with Ex-Servicemen on Tuesday, 2 Oct 2012
1. With a view to reach out to Ex-Servicemen at Bangalore, I had most cordially invited a few Ex-Servicemen for lunch at my place on 2 Oct 2008. And it was gratifying that 11 Ex-Servicemen came over, couple of them with their spouses. 2. On arrival, the Ex-Servicemen mentioned, “Saab, hame retire hokar 10 saal ya 15 saal ho gaya. Hamaare puraane saab log kabhi kabhi CSD canteen me milthe hain. Thodaa saa Hello, Hello baath- cheeth hothaa hai. Bus uthnaa hi. Yeh pahli baar hai ki, ek Afsar saahibaanne, hame apne ghar me khaane ke liye bulaayaa hai”. I could see that the Ex-Servicemen were profoundly touched by my simple gesture of inviting them for lunch at my place. And so was I touched. And that day, I decided that, as long as I live, 2 Oct every year shall be the day when Ex-Servicemen shall be cordially invited to join me for lunch at my place.
3. On 2 Oct 2009, 17 Ex-Servicemen, a few of them with their families were gracious to join me for lunch at my place.
4. On 2 Oct 2010, over 100 Veteran Officers of the Army, Navy & Air Force joined hands and hosted a lunch for approximately 400 Ex-Servicemen, their families and Defence Family Pensioners. It was gratifying to see a galaxy of Generals, Admirals & Air Marshals present as hosts and talking to Ex-Servicemen, their families and Defence Family pensioners. A large number of Ex-Servicemen and Veteran Officers recalled their days together, with nostalgia.
5. Unfortunately, on account of my ill-health and personal commitments, I could not organize hosting of a station lunch for Ex-Servicemen on 2 Oct 2011 and 2 Oct 2012. All the same, lunch for Ex-Servicemen was hosted by me at my place on 2 Oct 2011 and on 2 Oct 2012.
6. Point for kind consideration by Veteran Officers. I suggest that 2 Oct every year should be a day when Veteran Officers host lunch for Ex-Servicemen, their families & Defence Family Pensioners, either individually at their place or collectively at a central location in all stations. The local mil Fmn Cdr or Station Cdr may be invited for Lunch. A small gesture as hosting of a lunch for Ex-Servicemen by Veteran Officers on 2 Oct every year would go a long way in strengthening the bonds of kinship, brotherhood & camaraderie amongst the Ex-Servicemen fraternity.
Regards,
Col Shaitan Singh Rajan of Jikargacha

ESM: Choice is unity or spinning money

Dear Mrinal ji
Thanks for your kind words. I have all along tried to bring in unity to live by the Charter we laid for ourselves way back in 1981. All these efforts have been frustrated despite the fact that we always offered to follow rather than want to lead. The minimal requirement of working out a common agenda has also been frustrated.
Today in my mail I only sought honesty in actions and deeds by suggesting a course of action i.e the IESM amending their Bye laws to stop direct enrollment and transferring their membership to an existing Society or registering another one. Whatever that is, it joins the IESM which would only enroll Organizations and not individuals. This new outfit then joins the IESM.
To prove our commitment to the unity I offer my Association to the IESM to transfer their Membership and then join the IESM a true Confederation. This way we will have a huge membership, besides The Cooperative Society for running business enterprises, the Trust to do the Social work, a ready made Web site www.aiewa.org with a running blog spot and a huge Cooperative Bank to back up. More than anything else it would give the name of the Association which has achieved name and fame for its efforts in the last 30 years of its existence.
More than anything else it would give me the opportunity for basking in the glory of achievements of the generation next unitedly.
I have gone through your wonderful article, very clearly bringing out the perennial problems faced by our people in trying to maintain unity. I entirely agree with you. I only hope these people see the logic in what I have tried to say and do the right thing.
Regards
Inderjit Singh

Dear Sir,
I am not at all surprised to read your account of failed efforts to forge unity. Shame on all of us, the so-called selfless and sincere veterans. Please do not get disheartened. Disunity is in our blood and the whole body-system. May like to peruse the article given below. It may spur some to rise above personal interests.
Warm regards,
Mrinal
Disunity is in our blood by Major General Mrinal Suman

Commission for the Armed Forces: Readers Responses

Ref: SC wants commission for armed forces personnel
16 Nov 2010,
Dear Col Sharma ,
I am thrilled at the success that your efforts have resulted in , in bringing into being the Armed Forces Grievances Redressal Commission with even the first members having been nominated .
As a very senior veteran , Born 18 Sep 1919 ,commissioned on 5 Oct 1942 , retired on 17 oct 1968, I take the liberty of sending you and the members of your team , my blessings for continued success in all your laudable endeavours . I congratulate you and the members of your team as well my friend Brig Kamboj , for having given your success story the publicity it deserves
Yours sincerely ,
Col M S Krishnamoorthy (Retd) (Member IESM, One of the Founder Members of IESL)
Dear Chander,
Constitution of a commission is a good development, but it is just the first step.
The more important is the projection of services case before the Commission. A lot of facts and figures will have to be worked out, considering issues of early retirement, extremely limited promotions ( as a service imperative ) and the X factor.
All these will have to be translated into monetary terms and compensated. I presume a committee will be formed by the IESM, which must take help from all those who have been dealing with this issue.
I am presently in the U.S. and will return only in Feb, 2011 and as such can be of little assistance.
Anyway there is enough talent and skill available for the task.
With regards and best wishes.
Harwant. (Lt Gen Harwant Singh, Former DCOAS)

Dear Colonel Sharma,
As I see it, what you, RDOA and the Hon'ble Supreme Court of India have achieved by legal means is something revolutionary. By ordering a Commission to be formed (with threat of 'suo moto' formation, if the Executive remains unheeding), the Supreme Court has not only indicted the present Government for mis-governance and incompetence in Veteran affairs, but in a way, taken over governance .
Heartiest congratulations and our admiration for your achievement. This is what our various ESM organizations have long been trying so hard for. It should be interesting as a citizen, to see how "The Empire Strikes Back", as try they will ! Regrettably, our polity has a surplus of expediency, but a deficit of a sense of justice and a complete lack of grace.
With best wishes and regards to you and RDOA and good luck in your further endeavours.
Sincerely,
Rajendra Prakash,
Maj Gen (Retd).

ARMED FORCES GRIEVANCE COMMISSION.
Dear General Kadyan,
I think that ordering the formation of the Armed Forces Grievance Commission almost 'suo moto', could not have occurred, if particular segments of our polity had not been sensitised to OROP and other Veterans' issues. Mr Justice Katju even quotes Chanakya (favourite of General Satbir Singh) and the NDTV show, apart from medals-return and burning artificial limbs. This should leave no doubt in anyone's mind that it is the 'doings' of IESM alone, which have brought about this landmark (almost revolutionary) occurrence, with the judiciary virtually divesting (albeit for a good cause) the executive of its basic function of governance - all these years past, no one else has been able to move the Establishment one wee bit !
The credit for this must go to you and the IESM team - formulation of a practical strategy, its dogged implementation and the results achieved speak for themselves. (Some of us ' fossils' have not favoured your pro-active measures, but then times change and proof of the pudding is in eating !). Congratulations on what has been achieved in a short time of two years by IESM - everyone who should, now knows of OROP, of course with the invaluable and devoted contributions of Brigadier Kamboj and his "Report my Signal".
We have to see how "The Empire Strikes Back", which they surely will try to do. So does IESM continue the present form of OROP struggle, or divert all effort to achieve this through the Supreme Court mandated Commission ? The Commission, at least initially, should be effective, with Generals Malik and Oberoi there for first two years. By itself, the Establishment would never concede OROP; with their well-honed 'evasion & escape' tactics, they will still have a try-on. So some weighty considerations for IESM to ponder over soon!
With good wishes and best of luck,
Rajendra Prakash,
Dehradun.

This is a land mark judgement in favour of ESM. My congratulations to
Col Sharma and other ESM of RDOA who spared no efforts in successfully marshaling this case in Supreme Court.
S.Murugan

Services Commission Setup By The SC
Congratulations.
A great achievement by you all. You have done wonders by putting across your case so convincingly that the SC had no option but to order the setting up of this Commission to look into the long outstanding problems faced by ESM. It is more like a Blue Ribbon Commission usually setup in the US I feel that we should not squander this opportunity by overloading the Commission with divergent view points.
Now is the time for all ESM orgs to close ranks and put up a paper to it. Views which are peculiar to a service may be put up separately. Lets forge a common sword to cut thru decades of neglect of our problems by the Govt .
Congratulations once again.
Lt Gen SK Bahri (Retd) (1st JSW Course)

Dear Brig Kamboj,
Please refer to the mail below regarding the Honourable Supreme Court Directions for forming Armed Forces Grievances Redressal Commission.
The mere fact that Commission can only make recommendations, I am sceptical. Even in drafting this order a whole lot of inspiring sentences have been framed, giving a feeling to the reader that some thing good will finally happen, but when one reaches the stage of Charter, scepticism is bound to creep in the way the Government of India has treated the Defence Forces till now.
My apologies for blunt comments. It is called Grievances Redressal Commission but its mandate is only to make recommendations!!!!!!. What authority do they have to redress the grievances? How will the redressal be actually given fast and in good time?
With warmest regards,
Major General Balbir K Kataria (Veteran), VSM

Supreme Court Directive
Dear Colonel Sharma,
I wish to express my profound gratitude to you and your colleagues for having fought the issue for redressing of the grievances of serving and retired community of Armed Forces Officers before to highest judicial forum and for having precipitated a landmark judgement.
Really there are no words to thank you and your colleagues. you really have done a great service to our Services community.
Very warm regards,
Brig J L Kaul ( Veteran

Dear Colonel sahib,
Congratulations on your success in forcing the govt. to form a separate commission to look into the grievances of veterans, in a matter where the Babus have been shown their place by not making the body predominantly Babucentric, for the first time. By this you have made history and shown that Babus can be fought and floored too. We all appreciate your selfless efforts on behalf of the entire veteran community.
It is good to know that the SC refused to reconsider the Rank Pay case, yet the Babus have succeeded in playing dirty again by making the SC refer the Rank Pay case to another bench, which will delay the decision further and make your task more difficult.
May God give you and your organisation more and more strength for performing such selfless work.
Shashank Bendre
Wg.Cdr. (Retd)

Dear Sirs:
This is one of the best news pertaining to the Defence fraternity heard in years. Our profound thanks and gratitude to Lt Col BK Sharma, President Retired Defence Officers Association and his team of dedicated colleagues for this crowning victory worthy of soldiers. They all deserve a standing ovation. A wonderful performance, Lt Col Sharma--you have done more than your bit!
There is a lesson here... let's remain united and focused. Also that no one is too small--or too big--for undertaking a noble cause in the service of the nation. What indeed is needed is the spirit/craze/obsession/even mania, call it what you will---" ... that man is freed from servile bands/Of hope to rise or fear to fall ... "
THREE RESOUNDING CHEERS FOR LT COL SHARMA AND HIS ASSOCIATES!!!
Warm regards--and thank you all.
Wg Cdr SC Kapoor, Veteran

IESM Rally at Beri, Haryana held on 07 Nov 2010

Dear Colleagues,
A report on the 07 Nov rally at Beri in Haryana, appeared in the Hari Bhoomi newspaper. Two photographs showing some of the ESM attendees and families are as above. It may be of interest that out of those who attended the rally, 276 new members have already joined IESM.
The dynamic veteran Hon Capt Jai Singh Rathi, VrC is the convener of five districts of Haryana namely, Jhajjar, Rohtak, Bhiwani, Hisar and Fatehabad. Under his leadership ESM of these five districts have taken a decision that in future for organising any rally they will not demand or even take any money from the IESM Headquarters; they will instead do so on contributory basis. For the 07 Nov rally, this norm was followed for all expenses – transport, venue arrangements including stage, public address system, and shamiana etc, shawl gifts to the widows as well for tea and food packets for all participants. We compliment Captain Rathi and his team and salute the community spirit of the ESM.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Time to Plan and Act: Ex Servicemen Barakhana at Bangalore

TIME TO PLAN AND ACT- EX-SERVICEMEN BARAKHANA ON 2 OCT 2010
An Officer’s responsibility towards his Men does not end with his retirement; it is a lifelong commitment. We, Officers, owe it our Men, whom we had the honour & privilege to lead, while in service.
Respected Veterans,
Jai Hind.
1. We, the Veteran community in Bangalore, had been organizing various Veterans’ activities & events, since April 2008, showcasing the strength of Gaurav Senanis (Ex-Servicemen) by reaching out to our retired JCOs, NCOs & OR and families, enabling their participation in large numbers. With this in mind I had been hosting Lunch for retired JCOs, NCOs & ORs during the last two years at my residence, on 2 Oct. They in return had expressed their happiness and gratitude in being so honoured. Witness to such sincere sentiments, I decided that through the rest of my life, on 2 Oct, I would invite them to participate in lunch at my home.
2. After seventeen Gaurav Senanis, a few of them with their spouses, participated in lunch at my home on 2 oct 2009, such involvements have become routine every two or three months, strengthening our bonds of brotherhood & camaraderie. In reciprocation, when Gaurav Senani L/Nk Naidu suggested a couple of months ago, that we have a luncheon meeting at his residence, we all agreed; and seventeen of us incl Brig Reddy & myself had lunch at Naidu’s residence; with positive impact on bonhomie and mutual respect & regards amongst the retired veteran community.
3. Come 02 Oct 2010. We, the retired Officers at Bangalore, plan to host a lunch for all retired JCOs, NCOs & OR of the Army and their equivalents in the Navy & Air Force and Defence Family Pensioners at the Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka site, Bangalore. The Barakhana with 1000 Gaurav Senanis participating is to be a great event; further strengthening bonds of brotherhood & camaraderie amongst retired Defence community. We plan to invite the local Fmn Commanders of the Army, Navy & Air Force, the CDA (Pension), Defence Pension Disbursing Officer (DPDO) and a few Civilian Dignitaries; to thank them for their assistance & unstinted support to the community.
4. I now appeal to all Veteran Officers across Bharatvarsh, from Kashmir to Kanyakumari and from Arunachal, Nagaland & Manipur to Punjab, Rajasthan & Gujarat to PLEASE consider hosting a Barakhana for all retired JCOs, NCOs & OR of the Army and their equivalents in the Navy & Air Force, at their respective cities, towns & villages on 2 Oct every year. The impact of such yearly activity, would strengthen the bonds of brotherhood & camaraderie within the veteran community and enable rendering a helping hand to the needy and not so fortunate ones.
Regards,
Col Shaitan Singh Rajan of Jingergacha
A son of an Infantryman (a Garhwali) and A Bombay Sapper

AN APPEAL TO ALL RETIRED OFFICERS OF THE ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE AT BANGALORE
PLEASE JOIN HANDS IN HOSTING A LUNCH FOR RETIRED JCOs, NCOs & OR OF THE ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE AND DEFENCE FAMILY PENSIONERS AT BANGALORE AS PER DETAILS GIVEN BELOW:
Retired Officers of the Army, Navy & Air Force at Bangalore cordially invite retired JCOs, NCOs & OR of the Army, Navy & Air Force and Defence Family Pensioners for BARAKHANA (Lunch) at 12 Noon on Saturday, 02 October 2010 at the RASHTRIYA SAINIKA SMARAKA site, Bangalore adjacent to Indira Gandhi Musical Fountain on Chowdaiah Road
Opposite Nehru Planetarium, near Raj Bhawan, Bangalore.
Please confirm your participation by Post Card or Email
RSVP
Veteran Col SS Rajan, IESM Convenor Karnataka & South Zone
77, 1st Cross Shankarpuram, Opp. Shankar Mutt, Basavanagudi – 560 004

From: yoginder sharma
Date: 15 September 2010 18:04
Subject: AN APPEAL TO ALL RETIRED OFFICERS OF THE ARMY, NAVY & AIR FORCE AT BANGALORE
To: Colonelrajan Srinivas
Dear Rajan,
What a noble, admirable and thoughtful initiative!
My congratulations- Bless you, Sir.
We talk; you act and how!!!
Am not in Bangalore or else would have joined up.
Will anyone take up the 'challenge' here (Hyderabad/ Secunderabad).
Don't know; not likely if 'past' is an indicator?
Let hope run eternal in human heart-some 'selfless- live-wire' may yet emerge!
Compliments and best wishes.
Yogi
Lt Gen YN Sharma, Former Army Commander

IESM: Defence Watch episode aired on the DD News

Dear and Respected Sirs and Colleagues,
A very happy Independence Day to all of you. And I think today is an appropriate day for this email.

I write to you in connection with the recent outstanding Defence Watch episode that was aired on DD News, the issues that it raised and some emails from respected members questioning any or all of achievements of IESM in the last 18 months or so. Also, the email also intends to answer the unwelcome allegations made on one of the most dedicated Fighters in this struggle for justice for defence forces -- Maj Gen Satbir Singh.

A lot has already been said about the Defence Watch program on DD News. How effective it was. How IESM and IESL were speaking on the same platform and were non-conflicting for the most part. How awesome the host was and how awesome everything went.

Hold on just a bit. Back up. Stop.

I want all of us to take a step back and analyze something very important and something that can so easily be overlooked. And the question is this:

WHY WAS SUCH A PROGRAM AIRED ON NATIONAL TV? WHY ARE PEOPLE WANTING TO TALK ABOUT IT? WHY IS OROP A WORD THAT MOST CITY DWELLERS ARE AWARE OF?

Why, I ask!

And you do not have to answer me. Or anyone else. Be honest and answer this question in your own heart and the answer is fairly simple and obvious.

If IESM, under the able leadership of Vice Chairman Maj Gen Satbir Singh and Chairman Lt Gen Raj Kadyan and other IESM founders, had not started this Mission Justice for Defence Forces, no one and make no mistake, no one would have been talking about OROP or military veterans or their challenges. Frankly once a service personnel puts down his cap and belt, the ordinary civilian (which includes the government and the bureaucracy) does not give a rat's a$$ (excuse my French, please) to what happens to that retired soldier. The ordinary civilian does not care if we live or die or simply rot away. They got what they wanted from us and we are useless for them now.

And this is what has changed. IESM has changed things. It has brought to surface and very effectively, the issues a military veteran faces after retirement. It has achieved what no other organization never achieved or even probably aimed to achieve -- putting military veterans back on the radar, in the limelight, right in the ordinary civilian's face.

Now OROP is a term most people have an idea about. It is discussed in the parliament by the president and the prime minister and others. It is discussed by politicians in their party meetings. It is discussed by the Toms and Janes and Rahuls and Sohans on their breakfast table. Some civilians say yes to it. some say no to it. But nearly all of them know about it. That, my friends, is the first step to our victory. IESM has made sure that we will not take invisibility for an answer. That we wont be left at the mercy of the nation we served and protected with everything we had. We will stand up and be counted. And we will get what is fair and what is right.

And how did all this occur? How did we accomplish this? We accomplished this because IESM happened. And IESM happened because some visionary people could identify this problem. That the military veterans deserve more. That change is needed.

So that's why the program happened. That's why newspapers carry these news items. That's why these rallies all across the country are thumping successes and that's why IESM will win this war for all military veterans all across the country. That's why the high offices and civilians with 'lal batti' on their cars look so shaken. That's why they want us divided. That's why they want us to fight. But that is ALSO why we must stick together. That is also why we need to be stronger than ever. That is why we can safely say that we are closer to winning this war than we ever were.

Now some people have a problem with this movement. Oh no I'm not talking about the civilians. I am talking about people from the military veteran community. They want us to stop. They want to protect the status quo. I thought of this as ridiculous and funny in the beginning and thought that these respected veterans would stop. But they are not. And its not funny anymore. Although all throughout this time I have been analyzing these certain 'elements'. And it is not difficult to crack their 'code'. There are two types of people who criticize IESM, its leadership, its operations and its mission.

1. Those who have vested interest in the status quo. Who are benefiting from the grief of millions of ESM. Those who have sold their souls for little pieces of gold, so to speak.

2. The second category are those addicted with inaction. They want to do nothing and that is reason enough for them to want no one to do anything. And in the words of a wise 'other's aliveness makes their deadness seem more real to them'. That's why they want everyone dead. They want no one to do anything so that they can lie to themselves and say 'oh hell, nothing can be done anyway so its not my fault you know!".

But both of these type of people cannot do it directly. Because anyone with brain even the size of a peanut will understand the logic in what IESM does and what its mandate is. So they do it by means of taking personal jibes at those who are working tirelessly for the cause of ESM under the IESM umbrella. They say we are cheating people. That we are schemers eating people's money away. And other things to the same effect.

To think that people can say such things about Gen Satbir and Brig Kamboj. Such humble, honest people who practically have no personal life because they have dedicated themselves to the ESM community and to IESM. Its just unacceptable.

Those who know Gen Kadyan, Gen Satbir, Brig Kamboj and the rest of the leadership of IESM as also dedicated senior veterans like Gen Jaini, Col Rajan, those who have spent time with them, those who have attended rallies with them, have worked with them closely, have been a part of the brainstorming sessions (and proudly I am one such person) who be able to understand, appreciate and thus respect the dedication, the passion that they have for this mission. They will understand how humble they are and how welcoming they are to constructive positive suggestions.

The recent email against Gen Satbir and his intentions for Leh relief was disappointing.

I understand that nothing I write today can be more vocal than the actions of Gen Satbir. But my fellow veterans and respected seniors, it is my duty to say it one more time that Gen Satbir is one of the strongest pillars of this movement.

In an organization there will always be certain differences of opinion pertaining to policies, functions, decisions and vision. But as leaders and as comrades in a mission the onus is on us to iron these out and to amicably work together and towards the mission. I firmly believe that there is a right way to put your point and there are other ways. I urge us to choose the right way. It is no secret that fragmentation will weaken us and unification will strengthen us. The choice is with us. Its that one last mile that remains gentlemen and we need to walk this mile together. As one.

On this Independence Day, let us all once again resolve to not stop, not quit and not give up until we win this war. And win we will.

I thank you all for taking the time to go through this rather lengthy email. I must apologize. But this was a subject very close to my heart. because it was about the organization that I am fully devoted to. It was about the people I have accepted as leaders and have come to respect them for their dedication and passion. It was about people whose humility and kindness is exemplary. And thus curbing the flow of emotions was rather difficult.
Thank you and Jai Hind.
Kameshwar
Kameshwar Pandey
Sub/Maj Hony Lt (Veteran)

Dear Satbir & Gulia,
I saw the the Programme on DD News on Wednesday AN and was a very happy man. The questions posed by Ashok Mehta were dealt with in a comprehensive manner and without any false rhetoric. Both of you speaking in the same voice was fantastic.Kudos to you both.

I was very pleased indeed Gulia, that you were backing the just demands of ESM strongly and not mincing any words.Your wanting the ESM dept in the MOD to be manned by ESM pers only, was a welcome change from your earlier stance of treating netas & babus with kid gloves. Bravo! Keep it up!

Satbir was once again precise and lucid in his poins and tried to cover all the issues in the limited time. Ashok was trying to keep his job by saying every now and then, that the ESM should be happy that the Govt has given the ESM a very good deal. I guess he had to play his cards right.
Bahri (Lt Gen SK Bahri, Former MGO, 1st JSW Course)

IESM: South Zone Veterans Meet at Bangalore

Dear Veterans,
My salute to Col Rajan and his team for organising the SZMV meet on 27 June in a professional manner and their commitment to the cause of ex-servicemen and their dedication to strengthen the roots of IESM movement. The honourable home minister Karnataka Dr Acharya also graced the meeting with his presence. He heard various speakers and aslo addressed the gathering. He confirmed that Karnataka Govt will take up the issues concerning the ex-servicemen with Central Govt.

Many speakers expressed their views in a friendly atmosphere on number of issues. The main thrust of all speakers was to improve the condition and Izzat of ex-servicemen all over India. The speakers also expressed their resolve to strengthen the IESM and wished this movement to spread all over India to help solve all problems of ex-servicemen.

Vice Chairman and Gen Sec addressed the meet and stressed on the strengthening the IESM to ensure that all ex-servicemen get the due respect and lead a respectable life as responsible citizen of India. He confirmed that views expressed in the meeting have been noted and will be put up for discussion in the GB and subsequently to all members of the core group and all state conveners. A consensus decision will be arrived at keeping in mind the views of all conveners. The decision of the IESM head office will be communicated to all soon. In the mean time all conveners were requested to maintain status quo and follow the latest instructions of the IESM head office.

All present confirmed in one voice their resolve to strengthen the IESM.
Regards
Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM

SEMINAR AT BANGALORE
Dear Rajan
On my return late last night, I would like to thank you for organising the seminar on sat & Sunday at Bangalore. The manner of conduct of the whole show speaks volumes of your and your band of ESM.

The presence and speech of the State Home Minister was exceedingly significant.

The points made by the various speakers were valid indeed especially with regard to organisation of IESM, membership, pension dues, donations and membership etc. I am sure that all the proposals would be considered seriously once your report of the meet is received.

I would like to specifically mention the three conveners from the NE states who for a change were made to feel a part and parcel of the IESM family. I would be wanting if I also did not mention the lady who single handedly pursued the recruitment drive successfully for Convener Mysore.

Finally I would be failing if did not thank my host Admiral Vasanth who not withstanding his age and work pressure went out of his way from recieving and seeing me off at the airport and lookong after every requirement of mine in between.
Congrats once again.
Regards,
Vice Admiral Barin Ghose (Retired)
Head Pension Division
Indian Ex Servicemen Movement

IESM: Completes 2 years on 27 April 2010

IESM COMPLETES TWO YEARS ON 27 APRIL 2010
Dear Veterans,
1. The Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (IESM) was formally launched on 27 Apr 2008 by placing a wreath at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate. IESM is apolitical Movement with an aim of getting Justice for the Defence Forces. The event on 27 Apr 2008 at India Gate was replicated on the same day at other cities throughout the country. It is to our credit that inspite of the deep resentment within the Military Veterans, the Movement has been peaceful and dignified, this inspite of provocations by some mischievous elements. It is with some satisfaction to note that we have been able to achieve reasonable success by highlighting the Injustices done to the Defence Forces to the public at large and also the powers that be in the Govt.

2. The focus of our Movement is not only confined to rallies and holding meetings, but we are taking the fight for justice to the legal recourse and we have achieved a degree of success for which we should pat ourselves on the back. Certain AFTs and SC judgements have not only been favourable to us but the courts have passed strong strictures against the Govt and have given time bound judgements. It will be befitting the event if we go all out to commemorate the start of the Movement on 27 Apr 2010. The following suggestions are made:
(a) On 27 April 2010, ESM across the country to hold meetings/ rallies /discussions/ seminars at village, block, tehsil, city, district and state levels as per the local situation and as decided by the local IESM convenors and motivators. These events be given maximum publicity through extensive media coverage. All ESM organizations across the country are requested to join in to create the desired intensity and visibility throughout the country.

(b) I have requested the NDTV to replay the coverage of the event on 27 April 2010 a number of times during the day and hold panel discussion on the Movement, its events and outcomes. We will write to other media both print and electronic to cover the event. Let us hope the media plays up. All ESM who have contacts with the media, to please chip in and assist in organizing discussions and publishing articles.

(c) Veterans who have flare for writing to please write articles on Defence Forces, OROP, treatment of military over the years, current security scenario both external and internal, Indian military strength, security challenges, military leadership and challenges, making Military carrier attractive, civil military relations at its nadir causes and retrieval strategy, military pensions and any other contemporary topic. Maximum articles may please be published in National media to draw attention of the people of India. These articles should also be put on the internet on various blogs operating in the country.

(d) ESM organizations and individual ESM to interact with MPs, CMs and MLAs throughout the country and solicit their support to our cause. OROP must be sanctioned at the earliest. Separate Pay Commission which has already been accepted by the Govt, should be set up now and all anomalies of earlier Pay Commissions be tasked to it to resolve in a given time frame say one year.

(e) Writing letters and seeking audience with PM, UPA Chairperson, RM and Supreme Commander. Impressing upon these functionaries the need to grant Justice to the Defence Forces. The Govt should be magnanimous enough to accept all the judgements passed by the Armed Forces Tribunals and the Supreme Court and implement at the earliest.

(f) Effecting Unity amongst all ESM Organisations and ESM. ESM Cells of various political parties to shed their baggage and join with the Movement to get our demands met.

(g) All out efforts be made to get signatures in blood and medals from volunteer ESM. Irrespective of the ESM organizations, we belong to, every one should join for the common cause of getting Justice to the Defence Forces. A very large numbers of signatures and medals should be deposited with the Supreme Commander the next time. Gen Raj Kadyan our Chariman has written a letter to the Supreme Commander today.

4. Let us rise to the occasion and All together Heave to get our demands met.
With kind regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,
Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement

New Year Wishes and Greetings

From “REPORT MY SIGNAL”
Wishing All ESM Organisations and All ESM success in their mission for getting- Justice for Defence Services of India.
AND REMEMBER- UNITED WE WIN DIVIDED WE FALL. CHOICE IS YOURS.
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj

You are indeed a great asset to not only the ex-servicemen & their families but also to the rest of the society as the torch bearers to serve the needy amongst us all who deserve the kind of attention given by an exemplary method of service to others without any motive of rewards or recognition in a selfless manner, and that others should emulate you & serve to fulfill the needs of those who deserve it the most.

From IESM
NEW YEARS GREETINGS AND OUR RESOLVE TO INTENSIFY OUR PROTEST MOVEMENT AGAINST INJUSTICE
Dear Friends
1. Firstly, Please accept my sincere greetings for the New Year “2010”. May the New Year bring happiness, good health and satisfying life for all Defense Personnel both veterans and serving and all members of their families.

2. Secondly, I sincerely pray to God to bless all veterans “With” “Unity and Strength” to strongly fight against the Injustice by successive Govts. Let our Protest Movement be intensified and executed peacefully and in a dignified manner. The pressure of the Protest Movement be built to such an intensity that the Govt see the “light of the Day” and accepts of legitimate demand of “Military Pensions” of equal service equal rank- Equal Pension irrespective of the date of retirement (which is referred to as OROP)

3. Thirdly, we pray, our next event of Medal Deposit at Jantar Mantar on 31 Jan 2009 from 10 AM to 2 PM be a grand success. Each district of the country where Ex servicemen are residing to please contribute voluntarily at leasts 2000 medals. I pray, the medal collection campaign gets into “Top Gear” with the dawn of “Near Year 2010”

4. Fourthly, we pray our ie IESM membership to rise to such large numbers that our two million ESM have a “say” to get “Justice” in the country and be able to live in peace, harmony, dignity and respect befitting a “Veteran Solider”
With Kind Regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,
Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement

IESM: Thoughts put into action is better than just day dreaming!

Sentiments about 'neglect' of servicemen are common discussion points in service circles- messes, bars and social gatherings. We all hope, and PRAY that the Indian National Milieu will some day behave more empathetical with the Defence set up. They would... but for the sibling rivalry ridden 'babus' we feel. Correct? Yes, perhaps. But only just.

Question: Why are MOST of us only content to TALK about it? Why don't we step forward ourselves to contribute our effort to improve matters?

Illustrations:
1. In trying to improve ECHS services, we had requested volunteers to operate as Regional Liaison Cell members and Polyclinic Liaison Cell members. We got volunteers to man (only one or two each ) JUST 7 Regional Liaison Cells. 227 Poly clinics need manning. Just a handful have received attention! Where are the rest? BUSY?
2. Membership of the IESM can do with improvement. Lots of praise about the good work being done is received. So if you like the good work, why not JOIN and refer people to JOIN. When we like food in a restaurant, we refer our friends to that, don't we?
3. We all crib about the 'lack of knowledge of matters military' amongst the citizenry. How about doing something about it? Do you connect well with kids? (Most Grand fathers do). Can you identify schools that would allow you to talk to kids and talk about the '' Making of a Soldier- How does he do the seemingly impossible?' OR ' Positive Attitude as a Battle winning factor - in War and in Life'? Or such like. Remember, Positive strokes only . There is ample negativity going around in media anyway. AND I AM referring to Pan India. NCR is Not India. Sounds familiar? Yes, there are many more states/ parts of this great country.
4. Appreciate IESM work? Can you influence corporate to assist our aims of awareness through CSR activities? Sports matches, marathons, golf tournaments etc to commemorate military history milestones like Kargil Divas 26 July, or Vijay Divas 16 Dec?
5. Fund Raising? Now that we have 80G applicable?
6. A concluding question, if your answer to ANY ONE question above is YES.
Question. What are you waiting for? If the answer to my last question is that you are too busy (with grand children, work, earning money, sickness, family commitments etc), please be informed that the 'indifferent citizenry' is ALSO busy with the same. So let us respect that too.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi,
Member IESM Steering Committee and ECHS Division Coordinator

Report My Signal Forum: We like to share our views with you

Thank you for visiting the Report My Signal (RMS) Blog

The RMS forum is a not for profit organization. It is free and there is no membership fees. We were formed to provide information to the Ex- Servicemen (ESM) who have served honourably in the Indian Armed Forces. The forum has been established to provide a strong sense of pride and mutual support for all who have served our nation in the armed forces. It will also promote a positive image of military veterans and champion their interests.

We are proud to be ex- servicemen comprising of all Sepoys, Non Commissioned Officers, Junior commissioned Officers and the Commissioned Officers of All three services. There are universal truths that inspire men. These truths are written in the histories of all great nations, and address directly the influence of the "Soldiers" on the traditions shaping the character of a nation. The ESM brotherhood is part of that tradition. We have served our nation and in many cases have risked our lives in it's defence. And in the tradition of soldiers around the world, we adhere to a different code, different customs, and different protocols. The love we have for our nation is very strong.

We are about 'pride' and 'unity' among our nation's ESM, their spouse and Next of Kin (NOK)/ ESM organisations and communities. It is our mission as a forum to focus attention both locally and nationally on the positive contributions made by military veterans. We believe our duty and our opportunity to support our fellow veterans did not end with military service alone. So through our actions, our community involvement, and our dedication to this cause, we hope to perpetuate the feeling of pride and belonging amongst our ESM community and we expect you all to do the same.

We are not alone in this endeavor. We recognize that no single organization can provide for the needs of all veterans. We are but one of many and in the spirit of our fraternity we support all ESM organizations, forums, and ESM groups, whose sole mission is to perpetrate, pride, and respect our nations Ex- Service Personnel their spouse and NOK. As proud Veterans we are bound by our honour, the military ethics, AND THE LAWS OF THIS ANCIENT NATION, to promote a positive image for all veterans. We welcome any Veteran of all ranks and all three Services, who has served our nation honourably and who believes in the RULE OF LAW.

WE ARE NON- TERRITORIAL, APOLITICAL AND NON- ATTITUDINAL. WE ARE NOT INTERESTED IN THE BUSINESS OF SPINNING MONEY, WE ARE MERE VOLUNTEERS WITH NO ULTERIOR MOTIVES.

Our forum consists of and is open to all veterans who have been honourably discharged from the Defence Forces. We do not lead. We do not follow. We are brothers from all ranks from all three Services in equal partnership.

OROP Billboards, Samman Samaroh Invite, ESM unity and readers responses

Dear Members,
An invitation from one Maj TC Rao of Congress Party, to some Veterans and VIPs, and a reply by Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, are reproduced below. If you remember Maj Rao, who had recently put up lot of posters in Delhi Cantt, with his photograph and announced that the UPA Government has granted OROP to All Ranks of Defence Services.
Regards,
Chander Kamboj.

Dear Major Rao,
Have you ever thought of honouring the war disabled? They also desrve to be placed on the radar of you party in the same manner as the war widows and the gallantry award winners. At present, they are conspicuous by their absence. Do you know how many are there in the country, as well as in Haryana? You have listed a whole lot of names on your mail - all political persons, as obvious VIP's. Don't you think the senior veterans, especially the heads of various veteran organisations, also needed to be included in the list of VIP's, not mere spectators, as your mail implies?
Regards,
Vijay Oberoi

Dear Friends,
1. We are conducting a state level “Shahidi Samman Samaroh” on 09 Aug 2009 (Sunday) at ITI Ground Narnaul, where all War Widows and Gallantry Award winners will be honoured by Sh Jagan Nath Pahadia, HE Governor of Haryana. Capt Ajay Singh Yadav, Minister of Irrigation, PWD & Elections will preside and Smt Shruti Chaudhary, Hon’ble MP from Bhiwani-Mohindergarh would be Chief Guest of Honour. Dr Karan Singh Yadav, Ex MP Alwar, Smt Shakuntala Bhagwadia, MLA Bawal, Ch Sukhbir Singh Jonapuria, MLA Sohna, Rao Dharampal, Ex-Minister Haryana, Smt Anita Yadav, MLA Salhawas, Rao Yadvendra Singh, MLA, Jatusana, Maj OP Yadav, MLA, Mandawar, Ch Habbibur Rehman, MLA Nuh, Sh Tika Ram, MLA, Alwar (Rural) and Maj Narpender Sangwan, MLA Dadri will also attend the Samman Samaroh.
2. You are cordially invited to attend.
3. Transport will be made available at Rajiv Chowk on 09 Aug 2009 at 0800h
With Regards
Yours sincerely
Maj (Dr) T C Rao

WHAT IS NEXT COURSE OF ACTION? UNITY MUST BE THE FIRST STEP
Dear Rajinder Kushwaha,
Thank you for your email. I respect your views. From day one I have stood by the principle of our struggle remaining within the law. That is my advice still. Whether our efforts have achieved any results or not is left for everyone's own judgment. Our efforts have been directed for OROP that affects the whole ESM community and not for any ranks.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Dear General Raj Kadyan,
Sohi has rightly pointed out the anomalies in the pensions of a MAJOR & a COLONEL and a MAJ GEN and LT GEN. What I suspect is that the people who have been benefitted with the latest govt announcements, as most of the LT GENS and LT COLs have been, they would like to put waters on the proposed action plans. Let us not talk in riddles if we want to really achieve something. Time has come for some concrete steps which will yield desired results. The first thing I would like to see is the UNITY and CONSENSUS on the chosen option or the course of action. Let us not make half-hearted moves with NO RESULTS.
I find most of us are good in scoring self goals and also we might scuttle our own moves by showing dissent. I have been seeing this happening for the last six months that everyone in IESM or IESL is trying to become a LEADER. There are too many people who are drum-beating their names and projecting themselves. Can we have some CENTRAL SPOKES -PERSON doing this?
Finally,I find all sorts of stuff being FORWARDED on this net. Let us remain focussed on one thing. Let us not show favour to some and reject others. If Lt General ViJAY OBEROI's ARTICLE can be circulated by 'REPORT MY SIGNALS"---so should be others. There should be no discrimination---After retirement---we are all retired army officers and there is NO RANK STRUCTURE in civil walk of life --whether a COL or a GENERAL or a MAJOR.
Regards,
Rajinder Kushwaha

Sir,
I am a part of IESM since inception. I, like so many of us here, am NOT looking to be a 'leader' (sic). Thank You. Would gladly have YOU as mine.
Having said that, I fail to understand the 'bottom line' in your mail. If the perception is that 'activity' is better than 'inaction', pls rest assured that we agree. In fact IESM prides itself for having generated 'activity' over past 'nearly one year'. So inactivity is genetically not a characteristic. However, like in past we have to 'choose' the activity carefully. This has been done in the past, and IS being done now. The fact that we are into newer areas of 'endgame' is perhaps the reason why it may appear to be a lull in comparison to the hectic Jantar Mantar days.
If you look back, Jantar Mantar DID serve a purpose. It may be (OR need not be) repeated, but by God's grace, every action by IESM has so far got us moving as anticipated..........perhaps better so.
Like any orchestra, here too, once one instrument has played, it must make way for the other. What that is going to be, needs to be seriously thought over. THIS is the stage we are on.
Lastly, RMS has its own set of rules and discretionary power of reproducing mails and articles they publish in the blog. That is ALWAYS the Administrator's prerogative. Neither Gen Kadyan nor You (or I), can guide them. Its an independent entity, and does NOT form part of IESM. BUT IESM enjoys as much privilege to have their mails circulated as you or any other ESM. If they dont consider publishing certain articles that you would have liked to see, may I recommend introspection to identify if those articles were worthy of larger ESM interest? Or were they just barbs, or just rude letters? May be you will then agree that its not the RANK but the CONTENT that formed the deciding factor for Brig Kamboj and his team. I feel they have been doing a marvellous job for the past nearly one decade, much before IESM came into being, and have greatly contributed to the ESM unity of purpose. I am sure you will agree.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi

To straighten the records
All non- repetitive articles of Col SS Sohi has been published in Report My Signal Blog. The RMS forums are not discriminatory, only interests of ESM are paramount. To deride LT Col and Lt Gen ranks and accuse them of watering down the movement is preposterous. The GOI by virtue of compulsion have granted enhanced Pension. This should not bracket them negatively for no fault of theirs. The OROP and Pension Parity is our ultimate goal which can be only achieved if there is unity within/ amongst us.
Blog Moderator

SCPC: Armed Forces Status, Pay and Pension downgradation is a continous process

By Kuldip Nayar, February 11, 2009
I do not know who in the establishment is to blame for the mess made in the case of salaries and pensions of the armed forces. Of course, the IAS officers have processed the demand and they are the twice-born service which sees to it that they remain at the top. They knit a net of procedures and precedents so skillfully that others give up in exasperation. But why do political masters play into their hands? There must be an equation between the two that ministers allow the IAS setup to maul or mutilate any proposal if it decides to do so. In this case, their action is horrifying.

When ordinary soldiers and officers with the rank of Lt General come to return their medals won for bravery in the field, they prove that have reached a point where they have abandoned the hope of getting justice in a normal way. It is time that the nation realizes that something has been done drastically wrong because the armed forces do not go beyond the domain of discipline. Something has happened which has pushed them into the domain of despair.

Still the establishment has not been able to belittle the dignity with which the hundreds of men from the armed forces surrendered the medals of their individual bravery. At the Jantar Mantar, they assembled to express their protest. All that they wanted was: one rank, one pension. From the ordinary soldier to the Lt General, this was their common demand. It was a fair demand which surprisingly the government had spurned.

The other Sunday, the Sabbath day, as many as 200 of retired men from the army packed their medals in transparent plastic bags, with their names written on them and put them in three cardboard boxes. They were forwarded to the President of India. Their effort was to meet President Pratibha Patil but she was away to Mumbai. They were not satisfied after meeting the deputy secretary. They do want to meet the President who, after all, gives away the medals for extraordinary courage and bravery.

I do not think that there is anything wrong in the demand of one rank, one pension. A Lt. General who retired in January 2005 gets a pension of Rs 27,700. The same rank officer retiring one year later has Rs 37,700 as pension, which is Rs 10,000 more. In the case of Brigadier, there is similar anomaly, a difference of Rs. 5,000, between those who retired early and the ones who did later.

I believe that the Congress Party’s election manifesto in 2004 acknowledged the demand for ‘one rank, one pension’. Former Prime Minister Atal Behari Vajpayee promised to remove the anomalies. Still over the years, the disparity has grown. One officer contends that the gap has grown by 82 per cent. The matter came up before the Parliament’s Standing Committee when I was retiring from the Rajya Sabha in 2003. I am told that the committee recommended one rank, one pension. Still the government refused to act. On the one hand, we say the country is safe in the hands of defence forces and on the other we treat them miserly.

My query from official quarters reveals that the government is afraid to implement the demand because it may trigger similar claim from other public sector employees. This is not a fair comparison. The job of the armed forces is full of hazards and exposes them to dangers all the time. Those sitting in secure, cushy seats in heated rooms cannot even imagine what the front means, whether at peace time or during the war. I do not want to introduce the emotional argument like the defence of motherland. Yet the fact remains that those in the armed forces give their life to make us live in peace. To deny them their due should not be even thinkable.

I take this opportunity to point out serious disparities within the defence services. Some 85 per cent are from the category which comprises of Persons Below Officer Ranks (PBOR). They are the most neglected lot because they have preferred not to raise their voice. Rations are free to officers and jawans. But there is a disparity in the quantum of rations. For example, an officer gets 260 gm meat while a soldier gets only 110 gm. The government can at least end such disparity even if it cannot dare to touch others.

The government has no defence when grievances over salaries, pensions and their placement in the protocol hierarchy have been piling up for years. Instead of improving their lot, it or, for that matter, the IAS officers have been downgrading them, emolument-wise and status-wise. The last Pay Commission’s recommendations were the proverbial last straw on the camel’s back and hence the return of medals.
IAS knit a net of procedures and precedents so skillfully that others give up in exasperation

IESM: Chairman's Desk

Date: Wednesday, 22 July, 2009, 10:44 PM
Dear Colleagues,
An audience has been sought with the President to apprise her that ‘one rank one pension’ (a term she herself had used) is not likely to be granted by the government. The environment will be kept informed when/if the audience is granted.
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM

Click link below to read the APPEAL to enhance our cause
STRENGTHENING THE INDIAN EX SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT
Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM, Gen Sec IESM

Strength is Strategy: Pangs of Pension Parity

Date: Thursday, 16 July, 2009, 8:20 PM
We want justice for Services. It has been denied all along and diabolically. Recent announcement on the substantial increase in the pension for the Personnel other than the Commissioned Officers and the implication towards OROP is proof enough, in my opinion.

We want parity in pension. Parity means ‘equality’. (I wonder how one can modify parity.) We want the grant of pension as proof of ‘equality’ between two soldiers (the word soldier includes all ranks in all the three Services). If there are two soldiers equal in rank and length of service, there pension has to be equal. This is parity. This interpretation is not just ours; even the learned judges of the Supreme Courts have said, so time and again. Of course, it is, again, a matter of interpretation. The Government does not accept this interpretation.

Hence, the question is how we can make the Government to accept this interpretation. Do we by any chance plan to compromise by making some contingent plan to get some substantial increase in the pension for the ESM and call it modified ‘Parity’?

The tables I have drawn are based on absolute parity within the framework of the pay revision and the pension rules. But these tables are meaningless till the attitude of the Government changes to see logic. Hence we have to work out a strategy to coerce the Government. One effective coercive force is strength. Thus strength is strategy.

We have to focus not on various tables for pension but how to prove our strength that supports whatever our proposal is. There can, of course, not be two opinions on the table being on the basis of Absolute Parity in Pension.

Let us focus on a single point of action; action to build and prove solidarity of the Servicemen on the issue of Parity of not only the pension but all other matters, as well.
Regards,
RN Radhakrishnan (Retd Major General)

Veterans organisations: Is OROP the only Goal?

Date: Monday, 13 July, 2009, 12:10 PM
Sir,
May I congratulate Satish Kumar Bahri on making a beginning in trying to bring the warring ESMs together?

While on the subject may I, veteran of 69 years of age and who retired in 1986, make a suggestion? In those times a retired person was left to fend for himself. At least now we have some active veterans organisations spurred in by the injustice meted out by the 6thCPC and the politicians/babu combine.

All ESMs are now concentrating on the OROP goal. And nobody would have any objection to that. But at the same time shouldn't the ESMs also make a beginning to work on other matters too? I have pointed this out to IESM but my views have been ignored. And IESL, too, is not at all visible in cities like Mumbai. Isn't it a strategy of the Armed Forces to launch an attack from all sides to achieve your goal? If an impression is given to the public that the Armed Forces are fighting only for "money" how much sympathy and support can we expect? We must also show that we are fighting for our 'Dignity'.

What I want to say is that there is very little or no exposure to the general public for Armed Forces and the services they render to the nation, their tough life, difficulties, sacrifices, neglect of their families, affecting the education of their offspring etc. Only in times of war/border conflicts do the media take notice of the Armed Forces when they are glorified. But public memory being short, they are forgotten till something like 26/11 jolts them into realising that it is the Armed Forces (NSG, MARCOS) who come to their aid and not the Police/babus/politicians. It is essential to put pressure on the government/ politicians not only at the Centre but also government/politicians at the states also, who, too, desire to come to power and rule. This is true of local administrations also like Municipalities. Unless they feel that their rule is threatened at all levels, the politicians will not take notice of any protest. The protest at Jantar Mantar by IESM did make the Congress party sit up and take notice. But this had no effect in the other areas/states. In most of India, the agitation went un- noticed by the public as it was Delhi-centric. Moreover, the fight must continue whether we get OROP or no OROP.

Therefore, I feel it is necessary that the Armed Forces and veterans remain in the public eye all the time like in countries like the UK, the USA. where the veterans are revered and get exceptional treatment in all walks of life. In India, they are not only ignored but denigrated. Perhaps this is not the case in Northern states which are close to the border,where the Armed Forces are omnipresent.

In states like Maharashtra, Gujarat the lay public have the vaguest idea about the Military because they rarely see uniformed personnel who are confined to the cantonment (Colaba) area. They feel Air Force and Air India are the same organisations! The other day I was introduced to a retired Dy. Dir. of Doordarshan in Mumbai, an engineer, who when told that I am a Wing Commander (Retd of course), looked blank and was frank enough to admit that he has no idea of the rank structure of the Defence Services and that this was because of the fact that there is hardly any exposure for them. I do not blame him.

So it is time we veterans made ourselves visible by wearing something distinctive attire, like a side cap and preferably T shirts etc displaying slogans like " Do not Forget Kargil martyrs", "Army/Air Force/Navy to the Rescue", "Remember the Jawan" etc. Also it is necessary to have a constant contact with the Defence establishments in the local areas and the serving personnel to instill confidence in the minds of veterans that they are not left to their own fate and will get all help and support from the Army/Navy/Air Force Commanders in their area. There should be more functions apart from Army Day or Air Force Day or Navy day which come once a year. The agitation and visibility should encompass whole of India and not only Delhi and al year round. The task is a big one.
How to go about is a challenge for people like you and your organisations.
Regards,
Wg Cdr Shashank Bendre (Retd)

Memorandum of Association: INDIAN EX SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT
Aims & Objectives. In general the IESM will aim to bind the ESM fraternity together and use the talent and experience of the ESM towards nation building. In specific the aims and objectives will be, but not limited to, as follows:-

(a) To promote, support and organize suitable occupational opportunities for ESM.
(b) To provide assistance to ESM and their widows in their resettlement.
(c) To provide assistance to ESM in setting up own small scale ventures for livelihood.
(d) To provide assistance to all ESM in matters concerning medical, pension, grants etc.
(e) To organize social, cultural, educational and recreational events for the benefit of ESM and their wards.
(f) To periodically hold conferences, meetings, seminars, lectures and visual shows on topics of interest to the ESM.
(g) To pursue with the Centre and State governments for removal of any discriminatory rules and provisions adversely affecting the interests of ESM.
(h) To pursue establishment of Just & Fair place of Defence services in the country i.e. functioning of Defence services in a democracy.
(j) To undertake any other task considered appropriate by the Governing Body.

Areas of Immediate Concern. To strongly take up important issues/ problems affecting the ESM like:

Constitution of Ex Servicemen Commission at the National level to look after welfare measures of the ESM. The ESM commission should be headed by an ESM and to have members from the ESM including ESM Widows.

Guaranteed Re-settlement/ Reemployment of servicemen on retirement until the age of 60 years or in the alternative, suitable enhanced compensation till attainment of 60 years of age.

To restore status, respect and self esteem which has been eroded in the past 60 years.

Revamping of ECHS Scheme so as to make it user friendly for all types of medical care, including super specialized care thereby improving the health care of ESM.

Representation of the ESM on all committees and other such bodies constituted for the purpose of looking into matters affecting the interests of the ESM.

Single window service to be established in all Civil/Govt. offices to avoid difficulty and delay of ESM problems.

Once a year a free railway warrant of the class authorized to be given to every ESM and his/her spouse of the life time.

Taking up case for Defence Constituency like graduate constituency for the serving & retired defence personnel to safeguard their interests in the Parliament & state legislatures. Till this is accepted asking for nominated members?

Taking up with state governments for allotment of residential plots & industrial sheds for the ESM’s.

Taking up cases collectively for removal of injustice through legal means

Building up funds by voluntary contributions as prescribed to have resources for building, office & legal aid.

To liaise with the services to help the PBOR’s in resettlement..
Memorandum of Association: INDIAN EX SERVICEMEN MOVEMENT(IESM)

The games the government plays and what ESM can do to avoid getting bowled out!

Date: Monday, 13 July, 2009, 6:03 PM
Dear Sir,
Right at the beginning I must will congratulate and thank Sergeant Vasudevan for putting across his points of view so clearly and sincerely.

In my earlier email dated May 04, 2009 I had mentioned that the babus and the politicians have already divided the country in the name of cast, creed, religion, state, and this list is endless. They now want to play the same dirty game of divide and rule with the ESM community also. A game they learnt from the British and a game they have mastered. This has indeed been proven by the false and confused announcements made by the Finance Minister. As rightly said by our Chairman in a SITREP, we have been forever waiting for the detailed letter to come out from the Ministry of Finance. But that detailed official letter cum announcement has been as elusive as the rains this summer. All parts of the ESM community, officers and PBOR alike, are condemning this partial, ad hoc announcement made by the FM. I am of the strong opinion that all arms and all ranks of the Indian Military be it the Army, the Air Force or the Nave, be it officers or PBOR, be it serving or retired – we are all united and we will continue this mission until the victory is ours.

The government is fully aware of the fact that the planning and execution of IESM is way beyond their control and that IESM is growing faster than they could ever imagine. The only resort left for them was to divide us as officers and PBORs. The GoI should recognize and be grateful to the officer community especially the chairman IESM, for it is because of them this mission is still peaceful. The PBOR community is so full of anguish that if left uncontrolled/unguided they will not refrain from resorting to other means of making the deaf hear our voice. That said, I must underline the fact that this is a rather dangerous game the GoI is playing and it better be aware of the consequences of this.
In my opinion the very reason behind the fact that OROP has not been implanted in its true nature and spirit is the fact that each and every action/decision/step taken by the IESM leadership is being debated. This is a clear sign for the GoI that the ESM community is not united. The proverb “Too many cooks spoil the food” is so truly applicable to this situation. We must all understand that this too is like a war for justice and no war can ever be won if there are more than one orders given at the same time or if, on every decision, a committee or a consensus must be formed. Therefore my request to the entire ESM community is this:

Let us all be united in our thoughts, actions and words. That is the only way we can become a force strong enough to shake the high offices in New Delhi.

Let us all have faith in the IESM leadership. The chairman and the steering committee is what the Captain is to a boat or a Pilot to an airplane.

Let us not criticize others. Instead, do the best we can in our own capacities to help the mission become successful.

Once a decision has been taken, let us all own it– for better or for worse– understanding that the intent behind taking that decision was the success of the entire mission.

I thank you for taking the time to read this email message.
Yours truly,
Kameshwar Pandey
Sub Maj Hony Lt (Retd)

ESM: Unity an essential ingredient to thwart manipulative bureaucracy

INDIAN ARMED FORCES- RIP
1. The scheming and manipulative Indian bureaucracy has finally succeeded in its six decade game plan of emasculating the defence services. The babus have, with finesse, manipulated the Congress led UPA government to divide the Indian armed forces into two separate blocs- Aam Aadmi (POBR) and the presumed pampered elitist (Officers). In one treacherous stroke, the one dependent firmament of the Indian nation has been both fragmented and politicized. And the stroke is the award of the benefits of OROP to PBOR and its intentional and malicious denial to Officers. Only the future can tell what the consequences of this historic decision will be.
2. The present government perhaps assumes that their act will effectively garner them the votes of serving and retired POBR and their families. Just as their vote bank policies of polarizing civilian electorate on the basis of religion, caste and region. The resultant backlash of this blatantly partisan and unjust decision, among the serving Officers of fighting formations will cost the country dear in terms of dedication and mutual loyalties between Officers and their men. The veterans of course will be virulently against the present government. The babus and netas appear to be cocky and confident that the minuscule Officer class is in no position to retaliate and they would come back to them groveling.
3. Having achieved nothing by appeals, requests and feeble protestations, the veterans should now unite at the national, state, district and panchayat levels all over India. We should now create a working and functional Organisation at national level and politically work out the method of bringing justice for all ESM and their dependants. Token and knee jerk actions are neither noticed nor taken account of especially by the hierarchy of the present political set-up.
OROP– One Rank One Pension
PBOR– Personnel Below Office Rank
Lt Col Sushil Chilimbi (Retd)

IESM: Readers Views

Country First
As you would recall that I had suggested the use of the marigold as a significant symbol to remind Indians of the sacrifices made by the armed forces for the nation and to remind them of the war dead and the 'Unknown Soldier'. We need to take this forward. Unlike the rose, the simple Indian marigold is used by Indians as a symbol of respect since time immemorial.

I am in the UK now. Here it is 'Remembrance Day' and the symbol for the war dead and the war disabled is the poppy. On Remembrance Day the whole of UK unites to pay homage to the war dead and the Unknown Soldier. The poppy is given to the citizens of this country and the recipient gives whatever he/ she can afford. The money collected is used for the welfare of disabled soldiers and the families of the war dead.

If the system does not do enough for the soldier in India then we need to do it ourselves. You would recall that before the 1971 War, the LIC refused to insure us against death/ disablement due to war and we had to subsequently set up the Army Group Insurance scheme. We should also similarly think of what we can do for the families of those who have sacrificed their all. The British system of Poppy Day/ Remembrance Day is a case in point.

I had also spoken about a long term strategy of what we should do 'long term'. I had suggested the setting up of a political party based on the philosophy of the Chetwode motto of 'Country First' and a strong set of values that puts country first, people next and self last. The wrangling that is presently going on between various Service groups is indicative that at the very start we are a divided lot and that if we do go by the objective of forming a political party at some point of time we will be no better than any other political party, in which case we might as well shelve this laudable aim. The country holds the Army in high esteem and we will be able to do well ONLY IF we prove that even after retirement we can be great instruments of change based on a solid set of values.
Maj Gen Ian Cardozo

Kargil Diwas
For the Tri-city (Chandigarh, Mohali & Panchkula) we have planned homage to martyrs (in connection with the Kargil Diwas) (wreath laying, eye donation & organ pledging) in the morning (1030-1130h), and candle lighting in the evening (2000h) at the Major Shankla Memorial, Sector-2, Panchkula. A big medical and dental camp for weaker sections of society is being organised from 0900 to 1600h at the Satluj Public School, Sector-2, Panchkula on Sunday, 26 July 2009. A few lectures at selected schools are also planned. If you want more let me know earliest. Do join in the good cause. Your physical presence at the functions, more than anything else, would go a long way in confirming our commitment to society, and our own cause.
Regards,
Brig Kiran Krishan, IESM Convenor, Panchkula

IESM: OROP- modified, diluted or jinxed?

Dear Friends,
1. With serious concern, we wish to inform all ESM organisations and ESM that inspite of efforts by all of us, the Government is planning to sanction only modified OROP. This will not be fair to the ESM who have been agitating ever since the 6th CPC recommendations were made public.
2. It is also reliably learnt that IESL Team which was invited by the Cabinet secretary besides AFA and War Disabled Association reps to give presentation on OROP, gave four options diluting the proposal in the descending order. We are at loss to know the reasons for giving such options to the Government. There is only one interpretation of One Rank One Pension as indicated below:

All past pensioners should get the same pension as is given to their rank-to-rank and service-to-service peers that are retiring now.

The date of applicability of revised pensions should be the same as the date of applicability of the VI Pay Commission i.e. 1.1.2006.

OROP should be made into a permanent arrangement so that the pensions of old retirees remain equated with the current retirees all the time to come and this issue does not arise again.

If there are any changes in the Pension Regulations concerning Disability Pension, War Injury pay, Family Pension and the like, the above principle of equity should equally apply to such past pensioners also.

3. IESL Team by diluting the OROP case has harmed the interests of 2.4 million ESM who were waiting for the Justice from the Government. Gen Raj Kadyan had submitted the IESM proposal of grant OROP to the RM and Cabinet Secretary. Though, we met the RM, we were not included in the discussion for the reasons best known to the Cabinet Secretary.

4. We will continue to carry forward our mission of Justice to Defence Personnel till our demands are fully met. We seek you cooperation. All ESM Organisations and ESM must join the IESM and strengthen the Movement. Our plans to commemorate the Kargil Diwas have already been forwarded. Our future course of action to get Justice to the Defence Personnel will be announced shortly.
With Kind Regards,
Jai Hind
Yours Sincerely,
Maj Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh, SM
Vice Chairman Indian ESM Movement