Governor N.N. Vohra has appealed to the people of the state to contribute generously towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund and stressed the need for involving all sections of society in this noble cause. He was speaking during a function organized by the Rajya Sainik Board in connection with the Armed Forces Flag Day celebrations at Tiger Auditorium here today.The Governor emphasised the importance of raising a large corpus fund for promoting the welfare of ex-Servicemen and their families in the state. He observed that it is our moral responsibility to take special care of the families of our martyrs and urged the state government to explore the ways and means for providing suitable support to the widows of the soldiers who are not receiving pensions. He said that he would also be addressing the Raksha Mantri in this regard.
Governor observed that the Armed Forces Flag Day, observed on 7th December every year, is an important occasion to remember the valiant soldiers who sacrificed their lives for protecting the territorial integrity of the nation.
He lauded the crucial role of the Armed Forces, both during war and in peace time, and observed that their sacrifices were founded in their bravery, devotion and dedication. On behalf of Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, the Governor presented to the Ex- Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme one Critical Care Ambulance for the welfare of ex-Servicemen and their families.Brig. (Retd.) Harcharan Singh, Director, Rajya Sainik Board, Maj. Gen. (Retd.) G.S. Jamwal, President ex-Servicemen League spoke on the occasion.The Governor presented cheques of Rs. 10,000 each to about two dozen widows and gave prizes to winners of painting, patriotic song competitions for children. He also gave away certificates of appreciation to Jammu citizens who had donated blood for the medical care of ex-Serviceman and their families.Mr. B.R. Sharma, Chief Secretary, Mr. P.K. Tripathi, Principal Secretary to Governor, Mr. R.K. Goyal, Principal Secretary Home, Maj. Gen. S.K. Sharma, GoC 26 Inf Div.; Mr. R.S. Chib, former Minister, Mr. M.K. Kumar, Additional CEO Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, were among the distinguished guests present on the occasion.