In a landmark initiative marking the 25th anniversary of Uttarakhand’s statehood, a state-level military conference is being held today in Haldwani, celebrating the valour and contribution of the state’s soldiers, veterans, and war widows.
Our correspondent reports that the grand event, organised at the MB Inter College Ground, is likely to draw a large gathering of ex-servicemen, military officials, and family members of martyrs from various districts. The conference has been organised by the State Sainik Welfare Department as part of the State’s Silver Jubilee celebrations.
The venue reflects both military discipline and cultural reverence — decorated with the tricolour, banners honouring fallen heroes, and stalls displaying welfare initiatives for veterans. The event aims to recognise the unmatched sacrifices of soldiers from Uttarakhand and ensure their families receive continued support from the government.
Cabinet Minister for Soldier Welfare Ganesh Joshi, who inspected the arrangements earlier in the morning, said the government is committed to the welfare and dignity of ex-servicemen and their dependants. He added that Uttarakhand, known as Veer Bhoomi (Land of the Brave), has always been a proud contributor to India’s armed forces through its Garhwal and Kumaon regiments.
Our correspondent adds that the event is being attended by over a thousand veterans and war widows from across Nainital, Almora, Pithoragarh, Champawat, and Udham Singh Nagar districts. Transport facilities were arranged to bring attendees from remote regions. Medical check-up booths, pension assistance counters, and employment guidance desks have been set up to address the needs of defence families.
The highlight of the day will be the arrival of Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who is scheduled to reach the venue around 10:55 am. He will address the main session and felicitate distinguished veterans and “Veer Naris” who have rendered exceptional service to the nation. The Chief Minister is expected to announce new initiatives for ex-servicemen, including enhanced welfare grants, resettlement schemes, and financial assistance for dependants of fallen soldiers.
Our correspondent reports that the government’s focus is on establishing Uttarakhand as a model state for veteran welfare. Special emphasis is being placed on education assistance for soldiers’ children, job placements in the private sector, and medical care for elderly veterans.
The conference will feature panel discussions on “Veterans in Nation Building”, “Role of Women Warriors in Defence Families”, and “Welfare Schemes for Ex-servicemen”. Several war widows and retired officers are expected to share their experiences and suggestions for strengthening the support system.
Officials said that the Silver Jubilee year provides an opportunity to pay homage to the state’s military heritage. From pre-Independence battles to modern missions, Uttarakhand’s soldiers have always exemplified courage, discipline, and patriotism. The government, through this conference, seeks to renew its commitment to those who have defended the nation.
Our correspondent adds that security arrangements at the MB Inter College ground have been tightened, with traffic diversions and crowd management plans in place. Volunteers and cadets are assisting attendees with registration and seating. Water kiosks, resting areas, and medical facilities have been set up to ensure comfort for the participants, especially senior veterans.
A cultural presentation honouring the bravery of Indian soldiers is scheduled in the afternoon, followed by a felicitation ceremony. The programme will conclude with a collective pledge to uphold the values of service, sacrifice, and unity that define Uttarakhand’s military legacy.
Officials noted that the Haldwani military conference marks the beginning of several defence-related initiatives to be undertaken during the Silver Jubilee year. These include veteran health camps, pension awareness drives, and outreach programmes for war widows and dependants.
Our correspondent concludes that the event stands as a symbol of gratitude and respect towards those who have devoted their lives to the nation. It not only highlights Uttarakhand’s proud military tradition but also underscores the government’s vision of inclusive growth and recognition for its defenders.
