NN Vohra honours a war widow at a function to mark the Armed Forces Flag Day celebrations in Jammu. Tribune Photo

Tribune News Service

Jammu, December 20

Governor NN Vohra today complimented and thanked all those people and organisations who are helping the Rajya Sainik Board in raising funds for the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families.During a function organised by the Rajya Sainik Board in connection with the Armed Forces Flag Day celebrations at Tiger Auditorium here, the Governor observed that Armed Forces Flag Day, observed on December 7 every year, was an important occasion to remember the valiant soldiers who had sacrificed their lives for protecting the territorial integrity of the nation.He lauded the crucial role of the Armed Forces, both during war and peace, and observed that their sacrifices were founded in their bravery, devotion and dedication.The Governor stressed the need to make the civil society aware about the role played by the Army in safeguarding the country and maintaining a vigil along the border.He observed that it was our moral responsibility to take special care of the families of the ex-servicemen, particularly martyrs, and expressed concern about the difficulties faced by the families of non-pensioner widows. He noted that consequent upon his taking up the matter with the Defence Minister, their pensions had been recently revised to Rs 48,000 per annum.He said: “We need to work hard to mitigate their sufferings by providing them timely support.”Brig Harcharan Singh (retd), Director, Rajya Sainik Board, spoke about the board’s activities and the funds raised.The Governor gave cheques of Rs 10,000 each to 34 war widows and prizes to winners of painting and patriotic song competitions. The competitions among schoolchildren were organised by the Jammu and Kashmir Academy of Art, Culture and Languages and the Rajya Sainik Board.Vohra also gave certificates of appreciation to Jammu citizens working for the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families. Brigadier TK Chopra, Station Commander, and RS Chib, former minister, were present on the occasion.