IMPHAL: Kargil Vijay Diwas was observed by the Rajya Sainik Board, Manipur, in coordination with the Akhil Bharatiya Poorva Sainik Seva Parishad (ABPSSP), Manipur Prant, at Lamphel on Sunday. The programme brought together more than 200 ex-servicemen, family members, Veer Naris and war widows to pay tribute to the soldiers who made the supreme sacrifice during the 1999 Kargil War. A community lunch (Bada Khana) was also organised for all attendees.
The observance began with a one-minute silence in memory of the six brave soldiers from Manipur who laid down their lives in the Kargil War. They were Sepoy (Late) K. Ashuli Mao, Vir Chakra; Naik (Late) Kalleshor; Havildar (Late) H. Adahrini; (Late) S. Garneithang; Sepoy (Late) Ng. Beningvir Moyon; and Sepoy (Late) Chara Nicholas Moyon.
Retired Lieutenant General L. Nishikanta Singh, VSM, attended the programme as the Chief Guest. Addressing the gathering, he said Manipur has around 17,000 ex-servicemen, including Veer Naris and war widows, making it the second-largest ex-servicemen community in the North East after Assam. The figure includes retired personnel from the Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Force.
He noted that while Assam has over 50,000 ex-servicemen, Manipur has produced the highest number of gallantry award recipients in the North East. He also highlighted that personnel of the Armed Forces often retire at a comparatively young age, many in their early forties, making their rehabilitation, resettlement and welfare an important priority.
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The function was presided over by Brig L.I. Singh, YSM (Retd), while Col T. Robindro Sharma (Retd) and Lt Col M. Ranjit Singh (Retd) attended as Guests of Honour.
As part of the welfare initiatives, a free health camp for ex-servicemen and their dependents was organised by NGO Sound Mind, Kakwa, in coordination with Ayush Hospital, Singjamei.
Veer Naris and war widows were felicitated and presented with gifts in recognition of their courage, resilience and sacrifices.
