The foundation stone for ‘Sahara’ Hostel, a hostel for Widows’ of naval personnel, was laid by Admiral RK Dhowan, PVSM, AVSM, YSM, ADC, Chief of the Naval Staff and Mrs Minu Dhowan, President NWWA today, 18 May 2016. It is a first and unique welfare activity for the naval widows being set up by the Navy at New Delhi and is aimed at providing relief to the immediate family.Towards this end, a suitable plot at D-6, Vasant Kunj, New Delhi was acquired by Indian Navy on 20 Jan 11 from DDA towards construction of the hostel for Widows’ of naval personnel. Upon obtaining necessary approval from various Govt. agencies, the “Building Permit” has since been obtained from South Delhi Municipal Corporation (SDMC) on 08 Apr 16. The construction is expected to commence soon and the project is likely to be completed by Aug 2018. The four story building will have 36 studio apartments, a recreational cum dining hall, vocational training centre, ECHS and a canteen.
The Sahara Hostel would provide relief to the Veer naris to help them tide over the difficult times that arise consequent to the demise of the naval personnel. The men and women behind our machines have always remained the greatest asset and strength of the Navy. The demise of a colleague is therefore not only a great loss for the navy but is also a traumatic experience for the family. It is therefore imperative that the navy assists the Veer naris in those unfortunate circumstances and provide necessary support towards their rehabilitation. To achieve this objective and to build on the time tested tradition of camaraderie and brotherhood in the service, the navy has put in place a Naval Regiment System to look after the welfare of its personnel, their families and dependents throughout the lifespan of the naval family.