Pune’s Air Force Station Prepares for 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day Gathering on January 14

As the 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day is marked across the country, the Air Force Station Pune will host the city-level celebrations on January 14. The event will bring together veterans and officials to address key issues related to pensions, grievances, financial assistance and welfare schemes for ex-servicemen.

“Air Force Station Pune will host the 10th Defence Forces Veterans Day on January 14. It marks the birth anniversary of the Late Field Marshal KM Cariapaa, who retired on this day in 1953. A towering figure in India’s military history, Field Marshal Cariapaa who was the First Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, led the forces to victory in the 1947 war and set the foundation for an enduring legacy of service, discipline and patriotism. This day is dedicated to honouring and recognising the brave soldiers who served in the Indian Armed Forces. The event at Air Force Station Pune will be preceded by a wreath laying ceremony at the Station War memorial to pay homage to the brave hearts for their supreme sacrifice and dedicated service to the nation,” said a press statement issued through the Defence PRO.

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“The key focus of the Veterans Day celebration will not only provide a forum to strengthen the bond between currently serving personnel and veterans but also a platform to address key issues like pensions, grievances, financial assistance, the ECHS scheme and various welfare schemes implemented for the benefit of veterans. On the day, various government agencies like Directorate of Air Veterans (DAV), Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (PCDA) and Zila Sainik Kalyan Board will set up an interaction desk to assist veterans on various aspects,” the release added.

“To facilitate wider participation, the station has provided online registration links with event details to all veteran associations. Pickup and drop-off services have also been arranged from various locations across Pune. Veterans are encouraged to pre-register for the event and be in possession of valid ID cards on the day. Approximately 4000-5000 veterans of all the three services are expected to attend the Veterans’ Day,” the release further said.