India paid heartfelt tribute to the courage, sacrifice and lifelong service of its ex-servicemen on the 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day, observed on January 14, 2026. Veterans’ rallies, wreath-laying ceremonies, grievance redressal counters and facilitation help desks were organised across the country, reaffirming the nation’s gratitude to those who once wore the uniform and continue to serve society with dedication.
Raksha Mantri Leads Main Celebrations at Manekshaw Centre
Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh graced the central event held at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt, which saw the participation of around 2,500 veterans from Delhi and NCR.
In his address, he paid glowing tributes to veterans, describing them as:
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Living pillars of national consciousness
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Symbols of collective courage
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A source of inspiration for future generations
He urged ex-servicemen to continue contributing to nation-building by:
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Guiding youth and Agniveers
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Supporting civil administration during emergencies
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Promoting social harmony
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Strengthening patriotism at the grassroots level
“Veterans Are Invaluable Assets in India’s Journey Towards Viksit Bharat”
Highlighting the nation’s development trajectory, Shri Rajnath Singh said the experience, leadership and values of veterans are crucial for India’s journey towards becoming a strong, self-reliant and developed nation.
“Whether it is education, skill development, disaster management, community leadership or innovation, your participation can leave a lasting positive impact on future generations,” he said.
He emphasised that society, especially the youth, must learn from the discipline, integrity and service ethos embodied by veterans.
Tribute to IPKF Veterans of Operation Pawan
The Raksha Mantri paid special tribute to ex-servicemen who were part of the Indian Peacekeeping Force (IPKF) during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka, launched nearly 40 years ago.
He acknowledged that the sacrifices of many soldiers during the operation did not receive adequate recognition in the past and noted that under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi, the Government is actively recognising and honouring their contributions.
He recalled that PM Modi paid homage at the IPKF Memorial in Sri Lanka (2015) and stated that IPKF soldiers are now also being honoured at the National War Memorial, New Delhi.
Welfare of Veterans a Moral and Emotional Responsibility
Shri Rajnath Singh reiterated that a soldier never truly retires — while the uniform may change, the spirit of service and patriotism remains constant.
He reaffirmed the Government’s commitment to veterans’ welfare and outlined key initiatives:
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Implementation of One Rank One Pension (OROP)
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Strengthening of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS)
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Expansion of telemedicine services to reach rural and remote areas
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Focus on rehabilitation, reskilling and employment opportunities
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Support for veterans interested in entrepreneurship and self-employment
He added that housing schemes, loan facilities and welfare programmes are being tailored to meet the evolving needs of ex-servicemen.
Veterans’ Respect Reflects Nation’s Moral Strength
The Raksha Mantri stressed that a nation’s true strength is reflected in how it treats its soldiers and veterans. He said the respect Indian society naturally holds for its armed forces is a powerful form of social capital that connects generations and strengthens the nation’s soul.
He also highlighted the importance of memorials such as the National War Memorial and local-level monuments in keeping alive the memory of the Bravehearts who made the supreme sacrifice.
Government and Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare Reaffirm Commitment
Speaking on the occasion, Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) Smt Sukriti Likhi described Veterans’ Day as more than a ceremony — calling it a reminder of the everlasting bond between the nation and its soldiers.
She noted that:
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Around 60,000 soldiers retire every year
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India has nearly 3.5 million veterans
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Their welfare is therefore a national responsibility
She highlighted recent initiatives such as:
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Improved timely delivery of pensions
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Increased grants from the Kendriya Sainik Board
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Expanded resettlement and training programmes by DGR
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ECHS healthcare coverage now benefiting nearly 64 lakh beneficiaries
Nationwide Events Reflect Deep Respect for Veterans
Veterans’ rallies, wreath-laying ceremonies and outreach programmes were held across cities including Rajouri, Amritsar, Lucknow, Ranchi, Guwahati, Pune, Goa, Kochi, and many others.
The 34 Rajya Sainik Boards and 434 Zila Sainik Boards across states and Union Territories organised events, while help desks were set up by:
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The three Armed Services
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Defence and welfare organisations
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Banks and employment agencies
These provided on-the-spot grievance redressal, facilitation and awareness support to veterans and their families.
Legacy of Field Marshal KM Cariappa Remembered
Defence Forces Veterans’ Day is observed annually on 14 January to honour the legacy of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, who retired on this day in 1953. His life continues to symbolise discipline, leadership and selfless service to the nation.
Conclusion
The 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day stands as a powerful national tribute to the millions of ex-servicemen who have safeguarded India’s freedom and sovereignty. From policy reforms and welfare initiatives to emotional recognition and public respect, the day reaffirmed that veterans are not just former soldiers but enduring guardians of national values. As India moves towards Viksit Bharat, the wisdom, leadership and service spirit of its veterans will remain one of the nation’s greatest strengths.
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Source: PIB
