SHILLONG:
A Mega Ex-Servicemen (ESM) rally, organized by Headquarters 101 Area, Indian Army, and the Rajya Sainik Board, Meghalaya, took center stage in Tura on December 12.
The event, attended by Ex-Servicemen and Veer Naris from Meghalaya, featured amenities such as Unit Run Canteen Counters, a Medical Camp, and Grievance Cells by Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), Zilla Sainik Board (ZSB), SBI, PNB, IndusInd Bank, and ICICI. The emphasis was on addressing pension and SPARSH (System for Pension Administration (Raksha)) related issues, along with raising awareness about benefits provided by ECHS, Army Welfare and Education Society (AWES), and the Central/State Government.
Member of Parliament, Lok Sabha, Agatha K Sangma, representing the Tura Constituency, graced the event as the Chief Guest.
Expressing her gratitude for the commendable services rendered by the defence forces,Sangma emphasized the need for post-retirement support.
She lauded government initiatives like CM Elevate and Promotion and Incubation of Market Driven Enterprises (PRIME), designed to empower retired personnel with skill development and entrepreneurial opportunities and revealed that the Government of Meghalaya is actively exploring the establishment of a Sainik School in the state.
Colonel Gautam Rai, Director of the Rajya Sainik Board Meghalaya, highlighted the purpose of organizing the rally in Tura – to address the challenges faced by ex-servicemen and their families residing in Garo Hills. He pledged to ensure comprehensive support for a hassle-free post-retirement life.
Senior officers from the Armed Forces and other civil dignitaries graced the rally, further underscoring the commitment to supporting and acknowledging the invaluable contributions of veterans.
The Mobile Medical Unit (MMU), equipped with basic medical facilities, flagged off by Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma on November 17, 2023, was also present to serve the personnel.
The interactive platform provided at the rally aimed to mitigate issues related to pension, medical care, healthcare, re-employment, and grievance redressal.