Armed forces saved 6,000 families during flood: CM

BANGALORE: Chief minister B S Yeddyurappa on Monday said the armed forces saved 6,000 families during the recent flood in North Karnataka.
Speaking at the Armed Forces Flag Day, he said: "We are enjoying freedom due to the selfless sacrifice of the armed forces. Apart from safeguarding the border, they play a significant role in protecting people during natural calamities.The youth must aspire to join the armed forces."
Governor H R Bhardwaj said: "It is the responsibility of every citizen to ensure our jawans are honoured and loved. There is a need to utilize their expertise in nation-building. All ex-servicemen should find gainful employment. It is an obligation of society, and will go a long way in motivating soldiers."
Admiral Rt S R Sampath Gopal said: "A few years ago, joining the armed forces was considered a privilege. Today, it's the last option. This is due to the ground realities, especially the condition of ex-servicemen. Annually, 60,000 personnel retire in their '30s and '40s, and those who join government service because of duration of service are deprived of proper pension. The state government should earmark employment in sectors like horticulture, KSRTC, Milk Federation, etc. Several states have exempted property tax for armed personnel. Karnataka should also extend this benefit."
Lt General (retired) K Nagaraj said: "Personnel from the armed forces are highly motivated and discipled. They uphold the nation's integrity. The society must honour them and benefit from their service for the betterment of the civil society."
Gallantry Awards
Gallantry awards were presented to Dhanalakshmi Unnikrishnan, mother of late Major Sandeep Unnikrishnan; Air Vice Marshal B K Murali and Naik Ramanna R B. War-bereaved families and some of wounded armed force personnel who were awarded include P Sarala, wife of late N K Kiran Kumar; Usha K, wife of late Naik S Gururaj; Sep Gawade Viajnath Kallappa; Naik Hanamant Davalagi; Sep Sileman Multhani and Gnr Ravi B C.
Bangalore Urban district was recognized for the highest collection for Armed Forces Flag Day. Doordarshan director Mahesh Joshi was also felicitated for organizing 'Smarananjali', a programme running for the past four years, in honour of the armed forces.