Armed Forces Veterans’ Day: Saluting the bravehearts

“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.” — General George S. Patton Jr.

As we commemorate the 9th Veterans’ Day on January 14, it is unmissable to reflect on the journey and insights of those who have served in the Indian Armed Forces. The title ‘veteran’ is more than a designation; it is a symbol of honour earned through unwavering dedication and sacrifice. These courageous individuals have been instrumental in safeguarding India’s freedom, often at the expense of their comfort and safety. As we express our heartfelt gratitude, it is essential to recognise that their sacrifices for the nation merit appreciation.

Soon after India’s Independence, the transfer of power took place from the British Empire to the Indian Government. India was embroiled in its first war with Pakistan in 1947 and, paradoxically, the Commander-in-Chief on both sides were British officers. After the war ended, India needed to secure its territorial integrity from foreign aggression, and for that, the command of troops had to be within the Indian Army. It was agreed upon to transfer the command of the Army from Gen FFR Bucher of the Royal British Army to an Indian officer. Gen KM Cariappa, OBE, took over as the First Commander-in-Chief of Independent India on January 15, 1949 (which is celebrated as Army Day).

January 14 is celebrated as the Indian Armed Forces Veterans’ Day across India. The day has been chosen as Veterans’ Day as it was on this day, 72 years back, that the first Commander-in-Chief Gen KM Cariappa, OBE, hung his uniform after being at the helm of the Indian Army from January 15, 1949 to January 14, 1953.

In India, the Armed Forces Veterans’ Day celebration commenced from the year 2017. January 14, 2025 is the 9th edition. There are over 7,000 armed personnel retiring from active service every year and the veterans account for about 26 lakh personnel. The event is gaining awareness and popularity, thanks to various media platforms. On the occasion, veterans are invited to local military organisation and honoured. It is an occasion where those in uniform get to interact with veterans and strengthen their bonds. In many places, health camps are organised. The pensioners face hardships in mitigating their pension anomalies. Hence, pension cells are also established to resolve the issue upfront.

To address the issues of veterans expeditiously, a veteran cell was established in Army Headquarters, which has now been upgraded to the Directorate of Indian Army Veterans (DIAV). All departments, dealing with pensioners, like PCDA, ECHS, etc. have made their platforms user-friendly and opened 24X7 helpline numbers. Apps are being made to further facilitate veterans accessing military facilities like guestrooms, and visits to religious places.

Command headquarters are now leveraging the vast experience and domain specialisation acquired by veterans over the years by establishing think tanks which institutionalises the interaction between soldiers in uniform and those out of it. The concept of ‘Atmnirbhar Bharat’—a vision by the Hon’ble Prime Minister—will get an impetus towards indigenisation in defence production through these Think Tanks.

The continuous endeavour of the Army to ensure decent sustenance and respectable living by junior ranks i.e., JCOs and NCOs, Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) has been started at various headquarters. AWPO regularly updates job applicants, and job fairs are organised to facilitate those seeking alternative employment post-retirement.

Historical perspective

The concept of Veterans’ Day emerges from a similar concept prevalent in the US—The Armistice Day which is now called Veterans’ Day and is celebrated on November 11 across the nation. This day is a federal holiday in the US. Schools and colleges organise special programmes to honour and respect the veterans. In fact, the US has set up a Ministry of Veteran Affairs (VA) to look after their veterans.

Honouring and remembering those who made supreme sacrifices on the altar of the motherland, is the duty of every citizen of India. There remains much scope in terms of spreading awareness, especially amongst the youth, the importance accorded to the event, and newer initiatives to convey to the veterans ‘Nation Cares’.

“You are very much honoured and appreciated for all that you have done. Thank you for your courage and for putting the Nation first. By protecting our country with bravery and valour, you have ensured India remains unscathed from any harm. You stood stoically bearing all odds and smilingly sacrificed your life for the nation, for the citizens. Now we stand up in solidarity and will do all within us as a mark of respect to honour your selfless service!” - Jai Hind.

The writer is Director of 100 Medals Targeted Foundation. Views expressed are personal