In a resounding reaffirmation of the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to operational excellence, Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi conducted a comprehensive review of the Sudarshan Chakra Corps' combat preparedness. His visit underscored the Army's focus on high readiness, battlefield innovation, and professional excellence.
During the visit, General Dwivedi was briefed on various operational initiatives and the integration of cutting-edge technologies aimed at enhancing battlefield capability. He interacted with troops on the ground, lauding their dedication to adaptive training, operational efficiency, and technological advancement.
Honouring Heroes Beyond the Uniform
A major highlight of the COAS’s visit was the felicitation of five outstanding veterans with the Veteran Achiever Award. These gallant individuals were honoured for their exceptional post-retirement contributions to society and national development:
- Brigadier Ramnarayan Vinayak, VSM (Retd): A stalwart in ex-servicemen welfare, he established a Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR)-sponsored security agency that currently employs over 300 veterans. His efforts extended ECHS benefits to Veer Naris of the 1962, 1965, and 1971 wars, and he remains a vocal advocate for liberalized family pensions. Alongside his spouse, he promotes the legacy of India’s Bravehearts through awareness programs at Shaurya Smarak.
- Colonel Vaibhav Prakash Tripathi (Retd): As Vice President of the Madhya Pradesh Ex-Servicemen League, he is actively involved in training tribal youth to join the armed forces through the veteran-run Ojas Shikshan evam Prashikshan Sansthan in Betul.
- Colonel K P Singh (Retd): Known for his legal advocacy, he provides vital assistance with biometric life certification, SPARSH grievances, and SSB interview preparation. His charitable work extends to supporting homes for the elderly and differently-abled.
- Naik Anil Kumar Verma (Retd): A torchbearer of social change, he transformed his ancestral home into a hostel for girls and established a school for underprivileged tribal children in Bilaspur, which continues to achieve exceptional academic results.
- Lance Dafadar Pradeep Kalaskar (Retd): Actively assists ex-servicemen in resolving pension and financial issues. He once risked his life to save five people from a fire and has been recognized as a ‘Vrikshamitra’ for planting over 1,000 saplings.
These awards highlighted the Indian Army’s profound respect for its veterans and their continued service to the nation, even after their formal retirement from duty.
Promoting Legacy and Inspiration
Concluding his visit, General Dwivedi toured Yodhasthal, an interactive museum showcasing the gallantry and heritage of the Indian Army. Designed as a public educational facility, Yodhasthal aims to foster civil-military cooperation and ignite patriotic fervour among future generations.
General Dwivedi’s visit served not only as a strategic operational review but also as a powerful tribute to the spirit of service that defines the Indian Army—both in and out of uniform.(PR)