Heroes of hills: HP honours veterans with welfare surge

Shimla: Himachal Pradesh has underscored its legacy of valour by dispersing more than Rs 17 crore in welfare benefits to veterans, gallantry-award winners, and the families of fallen soldiers this financial year.Chief minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu on Tuesday detailed the expansive support package, framing the state's veterans not merely as former employees, but as "invaluable assets" whose sacrifices remain the cornerstone of regional pride. The financial allocation targeted nearly 2,300 beneficiaries, ensuring that those who served on the front lines — and the families left behind — receive sustained economic security.
The disbursement included Rs 7.62 crore to 57 dependants of the soldiers killed or disabled in action, Rs 6.12 crore in financial security pensions for 968 defence retirees, Rs 3 crore in honorariums awarded to 1,084 soldiers recognised for exceptional courage, and Rs 20.8 lakh distributed to 154 beneficiaries under traditional bravery grants or War Jagir.Beyond supporting those who have already served, the Sukhu administration is funding a pipeline for future military recruitment. The CM sanctioned Rs 2.28 crore to facilitate Army recruitment rallies across the Kangra, Mandi, Hamirpur, and Shimla districts. Another Rs 10.2 crore expansion is in progress at the Major Somnath Training Academy in Mandi. Named after India's first Param Vir Chakra recipient, the academy is designed to provide competitive training for local youth aspiring to join the armed forces.Himachal Pradesh remains one of India's most significant contributors to the military per capita, boasting four winners of Param Vir Chakra — the nation's highest military decoration. "The state proudly remembers the sacrifices made for the nation with gratitude," Sukhu said. "Our commitment to the socio-economic empowerment of our ex-servicemen is unwavering."MSID:: 128978580 413 | Get the latest lifestyle updates on Times of India, along with Holi wishes, messages and quotes !