GUWAHATI: Assam's Governor Prof Jagdish Mukhi on Wednesday said, "Celebrations of Armed Forces Flag Day is an occasion to extend our gratitude to the armed forces which make tremendous sacrifices for our motherland. I would like to assure our armed forces that we will do everything possible for the welfare and well-being of our War Heroes, War Disabled, Veterans and Veer Naris."
Speaking at the celebrations of Armed Forces Flag Day at Raj Bhavan here, the Governor paid rich tributes to the brave and martyred soldiers for their selfless service for safeguarding the security and integrity of the Nation.
"Armed Forces Flag Day gives us an opportunity to express our solidarity and honour the supreme sacrifices of the soldiers, sailors and airmen and generate funds for their welfare."
Welcoming the ex-servicemen and war widows, Mukhi also conveyed his gratitude to them and spoke high about their contribution to fortify the defence of the country.
The Governor also said, "Heroic achievements of our armed forces during various wars, controlling insurgency and combating cross-border terrorism are commendable. During wars or fighting against insurgency many of our armed forces either lay down their lives or get injured. The torment that the family is subjected to is really heart-wrenching. Even the disabled soldiers feel dejected. Acknowledging the unflinching valour of our Armed Forces personnel, we as a grateful society consider it our duty to take steps for the rehabilitation of the martyrs, disabled and their dependents."
The Governor also expressed satisfaction that as a welfare measure more than 2,942 children of ex-servicemen were awarded scholarships and more than 123 girls of ex-servicemen were awarded marriage grant. Approx 2,281 ex-servicemen and widows were given welfare items to be used for day-to-day domestic affairs. Moreover, the Government has issued a Gazette Notification for 100 per cent exemption of property tax, increased the number of reserved seats from three to nine in medical colleges and three in dental colleges.
The Governor lauded the Directorate of Sainik Welfare, Assam for taking care of the welfare, well-being and rehabilitation of ex-servicemen, war -widows, disabled soldiers and dependents of martyrs in the State. The Directorate, with 19 Zila Sainik Welfare Offices, is in constant touch with all ex-servicemen and their dependents for their welfare.
Moreover, the Governor also urged every citizen of the State to contribute generously to the 'Armed Forces Flag Day Fund' and wear a badge as a mark of respect for the armed forces.
Officiating Director, Directorate of Sainik Welfare, Group Captain KC Kalita (Retd.), senior government officers and senior armed forces personnel, war disabled, war widows, ex-Defence service officers and a host of other dignitaries were present on the occasion, stated an official communiqué.
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