Kargil Vijay Diwas Celebrations 25 Jul 2011
Dear Friends,
Kargil Vijay Diwas (26 Jul) is here, We celebrate on 25 Jul (as hall available that day). You are all requested to come and pay homage to our defenders of Motherland (martyrs and living), in this case on the icy and daunting heights of Kargil.
This was a task of such magnitude that the world held its breath when we battled the Pakis, and perhaps few believed that we would be able to achieve this, but the indomitable spirit and valour of the Indian soldier led by the best trained cadre of NCOs, JCOs and Officers made it look so easy.
We need to bring this feat home to the nation every year in the same way we do for the glorious victory of 1971 when Indian arms carved out a new nation in just 14 days.
Both these victories stand out as the great feat of our arms and national victories uncomparable to any in the past 2 millenium. So as inheritors of that glory, let us celebrate these two in big way, and bring these home to our youth so taht they emulate these feats of valour in whatever field they be engaged.
We look forward to welcome you at the Deputy Speaker hall Constitution Club Rafi Marg, New Delhi on Monday, the 25th July 2011 at 3.30 pm. Gen KM Seth, Gen Chandra Shekhar and Shri Jaswant Singh will be speaking on this occasion to bring home the military, political and diplomatic efforts behind the victory.
We have requested Gen Mohinder Puri, then GOC 8 Mtn Div that broke the back of the enemy and fought the hardest battles of Tololing and Tiger Hill to give us his thoughts, worries, grief and happiness in those momentous days. But even more important, 'can we be warned and prepared for another Kargil in one form or the other to our coming generation and leadership' that is the challenge.
So COME ONE , COME ALL. LET US CELEBRATE OUR GREAT VICTORY OF KARGIL. 25 Jul 2011 3.30 pm at Deputy Speaker Hall Constitution Club Rafi Marg New Delhi. Constitution Club is just 200 M away from the Patel Chowk metro station on the Rajiv Chowk- Gurgaon Metro line.
PS It would be wonderful if we can all be in our uniform, with a side cap, regimental tie or cumerband or any regimental or military signia.
Niranjan Malik
Lt Gen NS Malik, PVSM
Showing posts with label Vijay Diwas. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Vijay Diwas. Show all posts
Monday, July 25, 2011
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
NCR Kargil Vijay Divas 26 July 2011
Dear Friends,
Jai Hind. The programme for celebrations of Kargil Diwas in NCR, being organised by IESM, is given in the email below.Be a good soldier and join the celebrations with family and friends. We look forward to your valuable support. Vande Matram
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj
Sent: 09 July 2011 15:49
Subject: Kargil Divas - Noida/ NCR KARGIL VIJAY DIVAS : 26 JULY 2011 Kargil Divas falls on 26 July. It is the day when the entire area captured treacherously in Ladakh by Pakistan in 1999, was fully cleared by some very dogged and ferocious actions, fought by our valiant soldiers, led 'from the front' in true Indian Army ethos, by Officers.The tenacity and courage with which Indian Army units precariously negotiated the razor edged mountain ridges in darkness, for day light spelt doom from the machine gun swept mountain slopes bereft of vegetation, is testimony to the leadership, training and professionalism of the best army in the world. Truly, Tenacity in Adversity.
Amongst all military actions fought since independence, this was not only the longest, but the ferociousness brought about the maximum casualties. 527 personnel died. 1363 were seriously injured. Four PVCs- the Bravest of the Brave, were awarded, two posthumously. Nine MVCs were awarded, six posthumously. The Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (IESM), commemorates the valour of the Indian soldiers each year, on Kargil Divas by India wide participatory activities. As the soldier is primarily a son of the soil, a national asset and not just a member of the Defence services, we believe that such commemoration of valor has to move beyond cantonments and largely involve the citizenry. Related events therefore are planned with such participation in mind.Following events are planned this year.
Lectures in Schools by Veterans. In the week preceding Kargil Divas. Taking Kargil War as backdrop, they would talk on inculcation of intrinsic qualities like Values, Camaraderie etc that characterize the Armed Forces fraternity.
Homage to Martyrs. Shaheed Smaarak, Sec 29, Noida. Sunday 24 July. 1100-1300 hrs. Its a Citizen's function. No politics. No Chief Guests. Blood Donation and Organ Pledging camps are planned on site for those who volunteer for this. All are requested to attend.
Lighting Candles at Home. This poignant ceremony has been appreciatively adopted by many households- both in the military and non military ones, in the past two years. At 8 PM on Kargil Divas- Tuesday 26 July, citizens across India light a candle at their residence entrance, and lay a marigold by its side, after saying a prayer for those who did not come back.
Theatrical Poetry Program. A College students Group dedicates their Theatrical Poetry performance during the week preceding Kargil Divas, to the valour of our Bravehearts who snapped victory from the jaws of a very dangerous situation.
Details later. All are requested to participate in large numbers. For any queries, please feel free to contact me. Thanks.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi, IESM
Jai Hind. The programme for celebrations of Kargil Diwas in NCR, being organised by IESM, is given in the email below.Be a good soldier and join the celebrations with family and friends. We look forward to your valuable support. Vande Matram
In service of Indian Military Veterans
Chander Kamboj
Sent: 09 July 2011 15:49
Subject: Kargil Divas - Noida/ NCR KARGIL VIJAY DIVAS : 26 JULY 2011 Kargil Divas falls on 26 July. It is the day when the entire area captured treacherously in Ladakh by Pakistan in 1999, was fully cleared by some very dogged and ferocious actions, fought by our valiant soldiers, led 'from the front' in true Indian Army ethos, by Officers.The tenacity and courage with which Indian Army units precariously negotiated the razor edged mountain ridges in darkness, for day light spelt doom from the machine gun swept mountain slopes bereft of vegetation, is testimony to the leadership, training and professionalism of the best army in the world. Truly, Tenacity in Adversity.
Amongst all military actions fought since independence, this was not only the longest, but the ferociousness brought about the maximum casualties. 527 personnel died. 1363 were seriously injured. Four PVCs- the Bravest of the Brave, were awarded, two posthumously. Nine MVCs were awarded, six posthumously. The Indian Ex Servicemen Movement (IESM), commemorates the valour of the Indian soldiers each year, on Kargil Divas by India wide participatory activities. As the soldier is primarily a son of the soil, a national asset and not just a member of the Defence services, we believe that such commemoration of valor has to move beyond cantonments and largely involve the citizenry. Related events therefore are planned with such participation in mind.Following events are planned this year.
Details later. All are requested to participate in large numbers. For any queries, please feel free to contact me. Thanks.
With Warm Regards,
Col RP Chaturvedi, IESM
Friday, December 24, 2010
Vijay Diwas- Report from various cities
Click here to read report from various cities
Vijay Diwas is commemorated every 16 December in India as it marks the decisive military victory over Arch-rival Pakistan achieved on 16 December, 1971. The anniversary of Vijay Divas is observed across India by paying rich tributes to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation. Most important celebration is held in nation's capital New Delhi where Defense Minister and head of all three wings of the armed forces pays homage at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate.
BANGALORE: Thursday is Vijay Diwas. The National Military Memorial (NMM) park in the Indira Gandhi musical park premises originally scheduled to be completed by this day is still under construction. Though work is going on at a brisk pace, the memorial will be delayed by atleast a month. Which means it will not be ready even by Republic Day, the second deadline. Work on this Rs 15-cr memorial park started in August first week. More than a month was lost on legal issues. When work resumed, rainy days followed.
"There is some delay due to the rains. The pits dug up for the underground motivation hall were inundated. It's a nine-month contract that's on till May, 2011. But we had planned to finish it by January 26. But now, it might extend to February end,'' a BDA engineer told TOI. According to BDA estimates, 30% of the project is completed.
"We are sure not happy with the delay. We still hope to dedicate the memorial to the martyrs and their families on the Republic Day,'' Rajeev Chandrasekhar, chairman, National Military Memorial Committee, said.
Read more: The Times of India War memorial may open only after R-Day
Vijay Diwas is commemorated every 16 December in India as it marks the decisive military victory over Arch-rival Pakistan achieved on 16 December, 1971. The anniversary of Vijay Divas is observed across India by paying rich tributes to the martyrs who laid down their lives for the nation. Most important celebration is held in nation's capital New Delhi where Defense Minister and head of all three wings of the armed forces pays homage at Amar Jawan Jyoti at India Gate.
BANGALORE: Thursday is Vijay Diwas. The National Military Memorial (NMM) park in the Indira Gandhi musical park premises originally scheduled to be completed by this day is still under construction. Though work is going on at a brisk pace, the memorial will be delayed by atleast a month. Which means it will not be ready even by Republic Day, the second deadline. Work on this Rs 15-cr memorial park started in August first week. More than a month was lost on legal issues. When work resumed, rainy days followed.
"There is some delay due to the rains. The pits dug up for the underground motivation hall were inundated. It's a nine-month contract that's on till May, 2011. But we had planned to finish it by January 26. But now, it might extend to February end,'' a BDA engineer told TOI. According to BDA estimates, 30% of the project is completed.
"We are sure not happy with the delay. We still hope to dedicate the memorial to the martyrs and their families on the Republic Day,'' Rajeev Chandrasekhar, chairman, National Military Memorial Committee, said.
Read more: The Times of India War memorial may open only after R-Day
Friday, December 25, 2009
Vijay Diwas at Bangalore- Report
At the very outset, I wish to place on record my gratitude to Veteran Air Cmde MK Chandrsekhar and Veteran Capt Ganesh Karnik, Hon’ble Member of the Legislative Council of Karnataka, for their invaluable help, assistance & support in organizing VIJAY DIWAS at Bangalore; and, in making it a grand success. It was due to the indomitable spirit of Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar that the statue of the Unknown Soldier, erected at Minsk Square by the British after the first World War, was shifted to the area of Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, in time, for the Chief Minister to lay the wreath on 16 Dec. And, it was on account of Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar speaking to the AOC-in-C Training Comd (IAF) that a contingent of 25 AF Officers & 150 Airmen in uniform came to Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, in the morning of Vijay Diwas. The entire credit for the grand success of Vijay Diwas goes to Capt Ganesh Karnik; for it was he who was responsible in getting the Hon’ble Chief Minister to pay Homage to the Martyrs; and, also hosting of Tea & Lunch for the Ex-Servicemen, that too in the Banquet Hall of the Vidhan Soudha. It was an honour bestowed on the Ex-Servicemen. Three Cheers to Air Cmde MK Chandrasekhar. Three Cheers to Capt Ganesh Karnik. I also place on record my gratitude to Brig Parthasarathy and Wg Cdr Mohan Rao for taking pains to take photographs on Vijay Diwas and for posting them on the Net. I also wish to thank Col AJ Bhandary for his support and Sub N Balachandran, ASC, for all his help & assistance. Col SS Rajan (Retd)
Detailed Report and Proceedings click link below
Report: Vijay Diwas at Bangalore- 16 Dec 2009
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Vijay Diwas 2009: Improved patronage at India Gate
Dear Colleagues,
As you would know from media reports, this year on Vijay Diwas, the gathering at India Gate included many that fall under the category of political who-is-who. In contrast last year Mr Dig Vijay Singh was the sole representative of the ruling Congress Party. All other things remaining the same, it would be correct to infer that the ESM as a community have come to be recognised. Credit goes to those whose struggle has got this recognition
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
As you would know from media reports, this year on Vijay Diwas, the gathering at India Gate included many that fall under the category of political who-is-who. In contrast last year Mr Dig Vijay Singh was the sole representative of the ruling Congress Party. All other things remaining the same, it would be correct to infer that the ESM as a community have come to be recognised. Credit goes to those whose struggle has got this recognition
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM
Friday, December 18, 2009
Vijay Diwas 2009: Chennai and Doon Valley
For the first time since I moved into Madras– what has now become Chennai– over a decade and half ago, I was pleasantly surprised to note that the Veteran Officers in the Station had decided to observe the Vijay Diwas. Thanks to the efforts of two untiring persevering determined veterans– Col N Viswanathan and Col TN Raman who against all odds decided to take matters into their own hands and decided to organize the function by themselves. And the resultant was a message sent on late evening of the 12th Dec, to say that it would be observed at 1100hours on the 16th Dec at the War Memorial.
The weathermen had predicted a wet Wednesday, and based on those readings, the local Government had asked all schools to close. Nonetheless, we drove down to the War Memorial with the skies being overcast and thick dark clouds threatening to open up any minute and pour down in all the fury. But the threats did not have any undue effect on all of us, as having been conditioned to commence exercises and operations in such weather, we pressed on regardless. We reached the adjoining MES IB, where arrangements had been made for parking of vehicles. From there we trooped into the precincts of the manicured lawns of the War Memorial. It was heartening to note that in spite of short notice - about 50 personnel from all the three Armed Services had gathered together to pay our humble tributes to all those brave soldiers who had given their all during the 1971 Indo Pak conflict in order that we and the civil society may live a more peaceful and better lives.
The War Memorial was a relic of the Colonial trappings – having been built by the Raj in memory of those of the then Madras Presidency who had fought on behalf of British Empire. Accordingly the letterings on main face were in English, whereas on the other three sides they were in Tamil, Urdu (possibly due to the troops of Arcot who were primarily Muslims) and Telugu. When the British took over Madras, it was ruled by Damarla Venkatapathy Nayak, a Telugu speaking gentleman.
The wording on the Memorial reads as: “To the memory of all those from the Madras Presidency who lost their lives in the service of ‘the Nation’”. To anyone having a closer look it would be obvious that the words ‘the Nation’ had been added later possibly replacing ‘the Empire’. Inscriptions on the four surrounding pillars have now been added. They read as 1947 – 48; 1962 Chinese Aggression; 1965 and 1971 – Indo-Pakistan war.
The function commenced exactly as scheduled at 1100 hours. Lt Gen C Sundara Rao, the Patron of AFVOA was the first to place a wreath on the memorial. He was followed by Maj Gen Chattaraman, the current President of AFVOA, Col TN Raman, Convenor of the IESM, Tamil Nadu, Col A Krishnaswami, VrC, VSM**, RAdm Sivamani and Sqn Ldr J Nagarajan, KC, decorated soldiers of the three services. Thereafter the rest of all the personnel gathered, offered floral tributes to the memory of war heroes.
The function came to a close by sounding of the last post by the soldiers of 5 Jak Rif Regiment.
Brig VA Subramanyam (Retd)
VJAY DIWAS AT DOON VALLEY- DESH KE SHAHID AMAR RAHE
To remember the day of historical and decisive battle fought by Indian soldiers in 1971 for liberation of Bangladesh, homage was paid to MARTYRS at 1545 hrs on 16 Dec 09 at Dakra War Memorial, Dehradun Cantt. Not only all martyrs who sacrificed their life in 1971 war but also all war wounded soldiers of Doonite and their nearest and dearest were remembered on VIJAY DIWAS. Function was organized by Jhanda Committee, Dakra Shahid Chok, Dehradun Cantt which was attended by more 350 Doonites including veterans & their families. Hon’ble Chairman Vidhan sabha Sh Harbans Kapoor was the chief guest and others who attended the Vijay Diwas were Sh Ganesh Joshi, ESM, MLA, Brig KG Behl, Retd, President Dehradun Ex-Services League, Lt Col BM Thapa, Retd, General Secretary Dehradun Ex-services League and Member IESM, Brig P S Gurung,Retd, Lt Col B S Chhetri, Retd, H/Capt P S Rana, H/Capt KB Thapa and many others.
Chief guest and President DESL disseminated the detail information about the VIJAY DIWAS and honoured all war widows, wounded veterans in war and their relatives by presenting souvenirs. Brig K G Behl during his address stressed on OROP and intimated the veterans and their families about all the efforts being taken at every level including by concerned authorities and IESM for an early favorable decision to over come the arouse irresistibility with the Central Govt for which as on today 20000 medals been deposited with President by the veterans.
Lt Col B M Thapa, Retd
Gen Secy, DESL and Member IESM.
Saturday, December 12, 2009
IESM: Membership drive incentive till Army Day 15 Jan 2009
Dear Colleagues,
In view of persistent demand from some ESM, the IESM has decided to offer a special one time amnesty membership offer on reduced fee. From Vijay Diwas (16 December 2009) to Army Day (15 January 2010), both days inclusive, the membership fee is reduced as under:
Officers– to 20% (pay Rs 100/-instead of Rs 500/-)
JCOs– to 20% (pay Rs 40/- instead of Rs 200/-)
Other ranks– to 10% (pay Rs 10/- instead of Rs 100/-)
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM.
In view of persistent demand from some ESM, the IESM has decided to offer a special one time amnesty membership offer on reduced fee. From Vijay Diwas (16 December 2009) to Army Day (15 January 2010), both days inclusive, the membership fee is reduced as under:
Best regards,
Lt Gen (Emeritus) Raj Kadyan, PVSM, AVSM, VSM
Chairman IESM.
Friday, December 11, 2009
Vijay Diwas: Homage to Martyrs- Bangalore
Respected Veterans,
Jai Hind & my salute to you all.
Your kind presence is requested at the South Zone Military Veterans Meet scheduled at Bangalore on Wednesday, 16 Dec 2009, to discuss & deliberate on all matters concerning welfare & well-being of Ex-Servicemen, war widows & disabled soldiers.
I shall be obliged if you could please inform other Veterans regarding the Meet and motivate maximum number of retired Officers, JCOs, NCOs & OR, from as many Dist. as possible from Andhra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Karnataka, to attend the Meet.
Programme on Vijay Diwas at Bangalore, on Wednesday, 16 Dec 2009, is as follows:
VIJAY DIWAS HOMAGE TO MARTYRS 9.30 AM ON WEDNESDAY, 16 DECEMBER 2009. AT RASHTRIYA SAINIKA SMARAKA, IN THE AREA OF INDIRA GANDHI MUSICAL FOUNTAIN, OPPOSITE NEHRU PLANETARIUM, ON CHOWDAIAH ROAD, NEAR RAJ BHAWAN, BANGALORE
Ex-Servicemen are requested to assemble at 9.15 AM on Wednesday, 16 Dec 2009 at Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, Bangalore, to pay homage to the Martyrs, on the occasion of Vijay Diwas. Ex-Servicemen shall be properly attired with suitable head gear and shall wear miniature or regular medals. (* The term Ex-Servicemen includes all retired Officers, JCOs, NCOs & OR and their equivalents in the Navy & Air Force). All Ex-Servicemen are requested to disseminate information regarding the VIJAY DIWAS to their fellow Ex-Servicemen by telephone, cellphone, SMS or Emails; so as to ensure maximum participation.
PROGRAMME
09.15 AM Assembly
09.30 AM Laying of wreaths (Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka would lead)
10.00 AM Tea for Ex-Servicemen at Vidhan Soudha
10.30 AM Ex-Servicemen Sammelan (Inauguration by Hon’ble CM of Karnataka)
01.30 PM Lunch
07.00 PM Lighting of candles at home in memory of the Martyrs.
08.00 PM Vijay Diwas evening at RSI, Bangalore
NOTE
1. Ex-Servicemen may be dressed in suit / combination with regimental tie or National Dress (bandh gala) or shirt & regimental tie or just open collar. The head gear could be a beret, a cap (like the Thambi cap or the Nepali cap), a side cap, a hat, a turban, a regimental turban with ‘thura’.
2. Cars & vehicles shall be parked only in the designated Car Park inside the area of Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, entry to which is from the rear from Asgar Ali Road.
3. The entire proceedings shall be conducted as a solemn event with dignity & decorum.
4. Ex-Servicemen are requested to be in possession of their Identity Cards for issue of passes for entry into Vidhan Soudha.
PATRONS
Lt Gen NSI Narahari, PVSM
Air Mshl Keith Lewis, PVSM, AVSM, VM
Rear Adml BR Vasanth, PVSM, AVSM, NM
Maj Gen MC Nanjappa, AVSM**, YSM
AVM S Kasinath, VSM
Cmde Sam Daniel, NM, VSM
EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE
IESM thanks Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Capt Ganesh Karnik, Hon’ble Member of Karnataka Legislative Council for all their help & unstained support to IESM.
Jai Hind & my salute to you all.
Your kind presence is requested at the South Zone Military Veterans Meet scheduled at Bangalore on Wednesday, 16 Dec 2009, to discuss & deliberate on all matters concerning welfare & well-being of Ex-Servicemen, war widows & disabled soldiers.
I shall be obliged if you could please inform other Veterans regarding the Meet and motivate maximum number of retired Officers, JCOs, NCOs & OR, from as many Dist. as possible from Andhra, Tamil Nadu, Kerala & Karnataka, to attend the Meet.
Programme on Vijay Diwas at Bangalore, on Wednesday, 16 Dec 2009, is as follows:
VIJAY DIWAS HOMAGE TO MARTYRS 9.30 AM ON WEDNESDAY, 16 DECEMBER 2009. AT RASHTRIYA SAINIKA SMARAKA, IN THE AREA OF INDIRA GANDHI MUSICAL FOUNTAIN, OPPOSITE NEHRU PLANETARIUM, ON CHOWDAIAH ROAD, NEAR RAJ BHAWAN, BANGALORE
Ex-Servicemen are requested to assemble at 9.15 AM on Wednesday, 16 Dec 2009 at Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, Bangalore, to pay homage to the Martyrs, on the occasion of Vijay Diwas. Ex-Servicemen shall be properly attired with suitable head gear and shall wear miniature or regular medals. (* The term Ex-Servicemen includes all retired Officers, JCOs, NCOs & OR and their equivalents in the Navy & Air Force). All Ex-Servicemen are requested to disseminate information regarding the VIJAY DIWAS to their fellow Ex-Servicemen by telephone, cellphone, SMS or Emails; so as to ensure maximum participation.
PROGRAMME
09.15 AM Assembly
09.30 AM Laying of wreaths (Hon’ble Chief Minister of Karnataka would lead)
10.00 AM Tea for Ex-Servicemen at Vidhan Soudha
10.30 AM Ex-Servicemen Sammelan (Inauguration by Hon’ble CM of Karnataka)
01.30 PM Lunch
07.00 PM Lighting of candles at home in memory of the Martyrs.
08.00 PM Vijay Diwas evening at RSI, Bangalore
NOTE
1. Ex-Servicemen may be dressed in suit / combination with regimental tie or National Dress (bandh gala) or shirt & regimental tie or just open collar. The head gear could be a beret, a cap (like the Thambi cap or the Nepali cap), a side cap, a hat, a turban, a regimental turban with ‘thura’.
2. Cars & vehicles shall be parked only in the designated Car Park inside the area of Rashtriya Sainika Smaraka, entry to which is from the rear from Asgar Ali Road.
3. The entire proceedings shall be conducted as a solemn event with dignity & decorum.
4. Ex-Servicemen are requested to be in possession of their Identity Cards for issue of passes for entry into Vidhan Soudha.
PATRONS
Lt Gen NSI Narahari, PVSM
Air Mshl Keith Lewis, PVSM, AVSM, VM
Rear Adml BR Vasanth, PVSM, AVSM, NM
Maj Gen MC Nanjappa, AVSM**, YSM
AVM S Kasinath, VSM
Cmde Sam Daniel, NM, VSM
EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE
IESM thanks Shri Rajeev Chandrasekhar, Hon’ble Member of Parliament (Rajya Sabha) and Capt Ganesh Karnik, Hon’ble Member of Karnataka Legislative Council for all their help & unstained support to IESM.
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Vijay Diwas at Navi Mumbai- 15 Aug 2009
Dear All
Over 200 ESM comprising of All Ranks from Army/Navy/Airforce, in Navi Mumbai celebrated VIJAY- DIWAS on 15 Aug 2009 at YMCA Hall CBD Belapur under the aegis of EX-SERVICEMEN LEAGUE, Affiliated to IESM.
This was to provide a platform for exchange of views between Defence & Civil fraternity, on various issues affecting ESM,Defence/Security of Nation,local matters like,naming of roads after the Defence Martyrs/ Hero's, War Memorial, Property Tax exemption & Allotment of accommodation for ESM to meet/ interact etc.
Mr Suresh Haware renowned Social activist, Scientist & Entrepreneur, was the chief Guest,large number of speakers from both sides spoke, including Vice Admiral IC Rao, PVSM, AVSM(Retd) Col DP Singh, President, Ex servicemen League gave out resume of ESM activities in Navi Mumbai including compilation of ESM directory. The meeting ended with National Anthem followed by Tea & snacks. We plan to hold regular meetings to bring all ESM on one platform and Interact with local Civil/ Political entities in the cause of ESM.
Brigadier Dharam Prakash (Retd)
Over 200 ESM comprising of All Ranks from Army/Navy/Airforce, in Navi Mumbai celebrated VIJAY- DIWAS on 15 Aug 2009 at YMCA Hall CBD Belapur under the aegis of EX-SERVICEMEN LEAGUE, Affiliated to IESM.
This was to provide a platform for exchange of views between Defence & Civil fraternity, on various issues affecting ESM,Defence/Security of Nation,local matters like,naming of roads after the Defence Martyrs/ Hero's, War Memorial, Property Tax exemption & Allotment of accommodation for ESM to meet/ interact etc.
Mr Suresh Haware renowned Social activist, Scientist & Entrepreneur, was the chief Guest,large number of speakers from both sides spoke, including Vice Admiral IC Rao, PVSM, AVSM(Retd) Col DP Singh, President, Ex servicemen League gave out resume of ESM activities in Navi Mumbai including compilation of ESM directory. The meeting ended with National Anthem followed by Tea & snacks. We plan to hold regular meetings to bring all ESM on one platform and Interact with local Civil/ Political entities in the cause of ESM.
Brigadier Dharam Prakash (Retd)
Friday, July 31, 2009
Kargil Diwas: Report from the States
Some more pictures of activities at Panchkula on July 26 are sent for perusal of members.
Regards,
Brig Kiran Krishan, SM (Retd)
Coordinator, IESM, Panchkula
From: Brig V A Subramanyam
Sent: Wednesday, July 29, 2009 10:33 PM
Subject: Observance of Vijay Diwas - Besant Nagar, Chennai
A report on the Meeting: click me
Kargil Day at Tirunelveli
click me
Wednesday, December 17, 2008
Sandeep’s parents visit his alma mater
Umesh Dewan
Tribune News Service Dehradun, December 16, 2008
On the occasion of Vijay Diwas, K. Unnikrishnan and Dhanalakshmi, parents of National Security Guard (NSG) Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan who was killed in the Mumbai terror attacks, visited the IMA and laid wreaths at the war memorial in the south block. Dhanalakshmi, mother of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, pays homage to the martyrs at the War Memorial in IMA on Tuesday.
Dhanalakshmi, mother of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, pays homage to the martyrs at the War Memorial in IMA on Tuesday. Tribune photo: Vinod Pundir
“I feel a little nervous in the Indian Military Academy (IMA) as this is the place where he was commissioned into 7 Bihar,” K. Unnikrishnan penned down these words in the visitors book at the war memorial here today.
The visit was a quiet affair as per the instructions of the couple. The IMA Commandant Lt Gen Rajinder Singh Sujlana also laid a wreath at the memorial.
An emotional K. Unnikrishnan, a former ISRO officer, while recalling the memories of his son as an IMA Gentleman Cadet said, “From the beginning, Sandeep was determined to be an
Infantryman. At his passing out parade, Sandeep was so busy in getting his arrears cleared that he even had to skip his lunch at the IMA.”
Later, the parents of Major Sandeep visited the room in which their son stayed during his training here.
IMA Commandant Lt General Rajinder Singh Sujlana said that Major Sandeep was a brave son of the nation. He added that Sandeep was an outstanding officer and has stood by the credo of the IMA which reads, “The safety, honour and welfare of your country comes first, always and every time. The honour, welfare and comfort of the men you command comes next. Your own ease, comfort and safety comes last, always and every time.”
After passing out of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Sandeep joined IMA in July 1998. In the academy, he was a sports lover and was a member of football team. He got commissioned into 7 Bihar on June 12, 1999.
He had extensive exposure to counter insurgency operations having two tenures in Jammu and Kashmir. He also served in high altitude area and was deployed with his unit in Rajasthan during Operation Parakram. He volunteered for elite NSG and joined as member of Special Action Group.
Sandeep’s parents visit his alma mater
Tribune News Service Dehradun, December 16, 2008
On the occasion of Vijay Diwas, K. Unnikrishnan and Dhanalakshmi, parents of National Security Guard (NSG) Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan who was killed in the Mumbai terror attacks, visited the IMA and laid wreaths at the war memorial in the south block. Dhanalakshmi, mother of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, pays homage to the martyrs at the War Memorial in IMA on Tuesday.
Dhanalakshmi, mother of Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan, pays homage to the martyrs at the War Memorial in IMA on Tuesday. Tribune photo: Vinod Pundir“I feel a little nervous in the Indian Military Academy (IMA) as this is the place where he was commissioned into 7 Bihar,” K. Unnikrishnan penned down these words in the visitors book at the war memorial here today.
The visit was a quiet affair as per the instructions of the couple. The IMA Commandant Lt Gen Rajinder Singh Sujlana also laid a wreath at the memorial.
An emotional K. Unnikrishnan, a former ISRO officer, while recalling the memories of his son as an IMA Gentleman Cadet said, “From the beginning, Sandeep was determined to be an
Infantryman. At his passing out parade, Sandeep was so busy in getting his arrears cleared that he even had to skip his lunch at the IMA.”
Later, the parents of Major Sandeep visited the room in which their son stayed during his training here.
IMA Commandant Lt General Rajinder Singh Sujlana said that Major Sandeep was a brave son of the nation. He added that Sandeep was an outstanding officer and has stood by the credo of the IMA which reads, “The safety, honour and welfare of your country comes first, always and every time. The honour, welfare and comfort of the men you command comes next. Your own ease, comfort and safety comes last, always and every time.”
After passing out of the National Defence Academy (NDA), Sandeep joined IMA in July 1998. In the academy, he was a sports lover and was a member of football team. He got commissioned into 7 Bihar on June 12, 1999.
He had extensive exposure to counter insurgency operations having two tenures in Jammu and Kashmir. He also served in high altitude area and was deployed with his unit in Rajasthan during Operation Parakram. He volunteered for elite NSG and joined as member of Special Action Group.
Sandeep’s parents visit his alma mater
Tuesday, December 16, 2008
Monday, December 15, 2008
Homage to Military Martyrs at Delhi
Sure some of us are working, some in our own business, some are busy golfing and some doing domestic chores. BUT REMEMBER, if YOU don't make it to pay homage to OUR martyrs, then YOU have no business cribbing about the Nation OR the Politicians of having forgotten you and our Field Marshals. Be present at the Amar Jawan Jyoti at 1200 hours IST.
Wednesday, February 6, 2008
Giving Soldiers their Due
One more Vijay Diwas! One more Army Day or yet another Republic Day! For the politicians and the bureaucrats, it is time to dig out the names of some martyrs and their families, dish out a few goodies and show empathy. Oh yes, it is time to impress the public and hog the limelight and then quickly turn your face away till the Independence Day at least. My contention is well substantiated by a series of stories being carried in this News Paper on the plight of war torn martyrs’ families.
At a recently held state sponsored Vijay Diwas function, the district stadium was filled with a motley crowd of special invitees, school children and many tamaash beens. The sound of trumpets ushered in the chief guest. An army band played the national anthem that was followed by a wreath laying ceremony and a march past. From the dais, a local politician babbled incoherently for a while and then solemnly distributed a couple of wheel chairs and sewing machines to a few selected disabled soldiers and to some veiled widows. A cultural programme and some more speeches later, the show ended. Next day, the media would splash pictures of the VIPs.
Standing next to me in the crowd, a frail looking war widow with two young children, fixed her gaze vacantly at the march past. Her husband was killed in an ambush in J&K. Five years ago, when his body bag was brought home; a local politician assured her a liberal financial aid, a government job and free education for her children. Nothing materialized. Sadly, back home in her own village, she became an outcast and recluse over a period. She now works as a maidservant. No, a ‘domestic help’ should sound more dignified.
Sadly, she is not the only one fighting a losing battle to redeem her status and dignity. In wars, it is the women, besides parents, who suffer the most, remain as widows and shoulder the burden of bringing up the orphans in endless struggle. Today, a very large community of ex- servicemen including widows, veterans and war heroes, mostly spread in rural India, are faced with a similar predicament. Shunned and rebuffed at every doorstep of bureaucracy, this helpless lot is made to run from pillar to post in search of a respectable rehabilitation and lost esteem. Ironically, soldiers who are sent away to defend our nation are made to fend for themselves in their own society when they return. Is this the way to show our gratitude to our brave soldiers? Why can’t the government, the bureaucracy and the common man be more sensitive to their aspirations?
Statistically, the government has introduced many welfare schemes for the Ex-servicemen. The problem actually lies in implementation. Due to lack of political will, most of these schemes remain buried in files and folders gathering dust. Local leaders who come and make tall promises soon get busy elsewhere protecting their vote banks. The bureaucracy just follows suit.
The prevailing malady needs to be tackled on two fronts. At grass root level, the ESM community, lying fragmented across the country, must some how form itself into a formidable and cohesive political force to be able to participate in the process of governance and policy making.
Secondly, the government should set up an autonomous apex body, say like NHRC, headed by a retired army chief and equipped with sufficient powers, with a clear cut and sole objective of fulfilling the aspirations of ex- servicemen. All other existing establishments with similar objectives should be dovetailed in to this apex body. A responsive chain of command with effective feedback mechanism should identify major problem areas of ex-servicemen and recommend new welfare measures if required. One can then hope that pending related issues like ‘one rank one pay’ and many more can be resolved expeditiously.
In the growing economy, the government must strengthen the financial backbone of the defence community by offering a comprehensive rehabilitation package and liberal concessions post retirement to assure a hassle free retired life.
Our Armed forces are the best- trained outfits in the world. Not many armies can boast of concluding a campaign as swiftly and as successfully as we did in the 1971 war. We as nation must feel indebted to our soldiers.
Today, the ex-guardians of the nation, mostly in their twilight years, are struggling to lead their residual lifespan in peace and dignity. A disabled soldier is not interested in how many candles are lit at a war memorial when the one in his own heart has got blown away. A widow is not interested in how many praises are sung on martyrs’ day when her own hero is not alive to sing in praise of her. Some one has rightly said,
“Our God and soldier we alike adore
Just at the brink of ruin not before
The danger past, both are alike requited
God is forgotten and the soldier slighted”
Let us not be branded as a nation of hypocrites.
Let us resolve to return the debt of a soldier in a befitting manner?
NS Ahuja
Col (Retd)
Extract of letter received by Brig CS Kamboj, VSM, from Col NS Ahuja
"Visited your blog site. It is interesting, very informative, very well planned and even a better lay out. My sincere thanks and compliments to you and your team. You people are doing a great job indeed. Besides, it provides a suitable platform for airing and sharing views. I keep getting your Report My Signal email too and, in fact, look fwd to it.
I am tempted to send one of my articles, ‘Giving soldiers their due’, carried recently in the weekly column ‘Defence Talk” in HT Chandigarh edition. The article focuses on the plight of ESM in our civil society and suggests some possible steps. Thought of sharing with other brother officers."
Blog Team thanks Col NS Ahuja for the thought provoking article and bringing to focus the plight of ESM and widows of Martyrs'.
At a recently held state sponsored Vijay Diwas function, the district stadium was filled with a motley crowd of special invitees, school children and many tamaash beens. The sound of trumpets ushered in the chief guest. An army band played the national anthem that was followed by a wreath laying ceremony and a march past. From the dais, a local politician babbled incoherently for a while and then solemnly distributed a couple of wheel chairs and sewing machines to a few selected disabled soldiers and to some veiled widows. A cultural programme and some more speeches later, the show ended. Next day, the media would splash pictures of the VIPs.
Standing next to me in the crowd, a frail looking war widow with two young children, fixed her gaze vacantly at the march past. Her husband was killed in an ambush in J&K. Five years ago, when his body bag was brought home; a local politician assured her a liberal financial aid, a government job and free education for her children. Nothing materialized. Sadly, back home in her own village, she became an outcast and recluse over a period. She now works as a maidservant. No, a ‘domestic help’ should sound more dignified.
Sadly, she is not the only one fighting a losing battle to redeem her status and dignity. In wars, it is the women, besides parents, who suffer the most, remain as widows and shoulder the burden of bringing up the orphans in endless struggle. Today, a very large community of ex- servicemen including widows, veterans and war heroes, mostly spread in rural India, are faced with a similar predicament. Shunned and rebuffed at every doorstep of bureaucracy, this helpless lot is made to run from pillar to post in search of a respectable rehabilitation and lost esteem. Ironically, soldiers who are sent away to defend our nation are made to fend for themselves in their own society when they return. Is this the way to show our gratitude to our brave soldiers? Why can’t the government, the bureaucracy and the common man be more sensitive to their aspirations?
Statistically, the government has introduced many welfare schemes for the Ex-servicemen. The problem actually lies in implementation. Due to lack of political will, most of these schemes remain buried in files and folders gathering dust. Local leaders who come and make tall promises soon get busy elsewhere protecting their vote banks. The bureaucracy just follows suit.
The prevailing malady needs to be tackled on two fronts. At grass root level, the ESM community, lying fragmented across the country, must some how form itself into a formidable and cohesive political force to be able to participate in the process of governance and policy making.
Secondly, the government should set up an autonomous apex body, say like NHRC, headed by a retired army chief and equipped with sufficient powers, with a clear cut and sole objective of fulfilling the aspirations of ex- servicemen. All other existing establishments with similar objectives should be dovetailed in to this apex body. A responsive chain of command with effective feedback mechanism should identify major problem areas of ex-servicemen and recommend new welfare measures if required. One can then hope that pending related issues like ‘one rank one pay’ and many more can be resolved expeditiously.
In the growing economy, the government must strengthen the financial backbone of the defence community by offering a comprehensive rehabilitation package and liberal concessions post retirement to assure a hassle free retired life.
Our Armed forces are the best- trained outfits in the world. Not many armies can boast of concluding a campaign as swiftly and as successfully as we did in the 1971 war. We as nation must feel indebted to our soldiers.
Today, the ex-guardians of the nation, mostly in their twilight years, are struggling to lead their residual lifespan in peace and dignity. A disabled soldier is not interested in how many candles are lit at a war memorial when the one in his own heart has got blown away. A widow is not interested in how many praises are sung on martyrs’ day when her own hero is not alive to sing in praise of her. Some one has rightly said,
“Our God and soldier we alike adore
Just at the brink of ruin not before
The danger past, both are alike requited
God is forgotten and the soldier slighted”
Let us not be branded as a nation of hypocrites.
Let us resolve to return the debt of a soldier in a befitting manner?
NS Ahuja
Col (Retd)
Extract of letter received by Brig CS Kamboj, VSM, from Col NS Ahuja
"Visited your blog site. It is interesting, very informative, very well planned and even a better lay out. My sincere thanks and compliments to you and your team. You people are doing a great job indeed. Besides, it provides a suitable platform for airing and sharing views. I keep getting your Report My Signal email too and, in fact, look fwd to it.
I am tempted to send one of my articles, ‘Giving soldiers their due’, carried recently in the weekly column ‘Defence Talk” in HT Chandigarh edition. The article focuses on the plight of ESM in our civil society and suggests some possible steps. Thought of sharing with other brother officers."
Blog Team thanks Col NS Ahuja for the thought provoking article and bringing to focus the plight of ESM and widows of Martyrs'.
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