Armed Forces Veterans Day for veterans residing in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands was observed at Likabali Auditorium, Brichgunj Military Station, under the aegis of the Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC). The event brought together veterans, Veer Naris, and senior officers of the armed forces to honour their contributions to national defence and community service.
Vice Admiral Ajay Kochhar, AVSM, NM, Commander-in-Chief of ANC (CINCAN), led the commemorative proceedings, laying a wreath at Bayonet Chowk, Brichgunj Military Station alongside veterans and Veer Naris. Following the wreath-laying ceremony, CINCAN engaged directly with the veteran community during an interactive session at the auditorium, highlighting ANC’s commitment to their welfare and continued support.
The interaction emphasised the importance of sustained engagement with the veteran community through initiatives focused on preventive healthcare, timely resolution of grievances, and strengthening communication channels. CINCAN acknowledged the enduring role of veterans and Veer Naris in nation-building, reaffirming the command’s dedication to ensuring their dignity and well-being.
Officials outlined a series of ANC programmes targeting veterans and their dependents. These include awareness lectures, health and wellness sessions, and periodic community engagement activities designed to provide social support and facilitate access to government and military services. The initiatives are aimed at integrating veterans more closely into the local community while addressing their practical concerns.
Representatives from the Indian Army, Indian Navy, Indian Air Force, Indian Coast Guard, the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), SPARSH cell, and ICICI Bank were present to respond to queries and provide guidance on financial, healthcare, and administrative matters. The comprehensive approach reflects ANC’s people-centric strategy in ensuring veterans and Veer Naris receive focused support across the islands.
Veterans Day, observed annually, serves to recognise the selfless service and sacrifices of armed forces personnel while reinforcing institutional commitment to their welfare. In Andaman and Nicobar, the celebration has become a platform for dialogue between veterans and senior command officials, enabling direct feedback on issues such as medical access, housing, pensions, and recreational facilities.
The event concluded with further interactions aimed at addressing immediate concerns raised by the veteran community. Officials noted that such engagement initiatives are part of ANC’s broader mandate to maintain continuous outreach and welfare support, ensuring that veterans’ needs are integrated into policy planning and implementation.
By combining ceremonial recognition with practical assistance and dialogue, the ANC underscored its dual role of honouring veterans’ legacy while actively supporting their welfare, reaffirming its commitment to the armed forces community across the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
