The 12 Assam Rifles (AR) under the aegis of IGAR (North) organised an Outreach Drive for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents at Hantry Hall, Mokokchung on June 23 on the theme “Serving Those Who Served the Nation”. The programme was graced by the presence of Lieutenant General Vikas Lakhera, AVSM, SM, Director General Assam Rifles, and attended by IGAR (North), Commanders of 6 Sector and 7 Sector Assam Rifles, along with civil dignitaries of Mokokchung district.
Around 300 Ex-Servicemen and their dependents from Mokokchung, Wokha, Kohima, Noklak, Tuensang, Dimapur and Longleng districts attended the event.
The outreach drive included free medical and dental consultations along with medicines for the ESMs and their dependents. Surgical equipment including 11 wheelchairs, six walkers, 15 walking sticks and six hearing aids were also handed over to needy Ex-Servicemen and dependents.
Veer Naris, Veer Matas and gallantry awardees present during the programme were felicitated in recognition of their contribution and sacrifice.
Addressing the gathering, Lt Gen Vikas Lakhera said that Mokokchung is the capital of the Ao tribe and referred to the distinct tribal identities of different districts of Nagaland. He said that though people come from different states and districts, wearing the same uniform makes them one family.
“We stand with you,” he said, adding that the Assam Rifles had come to express solidarity with its senior members. He said that when people place their trust in someone, it brings a responsibility to serve them.
He described Ex-Servicemen as ambassadors and representatives of their society, and acknowledged the sacrifices made by soldiers who serve away from their families. He also highlighted that the sacrifices made by women in supporting their families deserve recognition and respect.
The DG Assam Rifles encouraged the Ex-Servicemen to continue engaging in activities after retirement and informed that various government of India schemes, programmes and opportunities are available for them and their families.
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He urged the gathering to approach the concerned officials regarding their grievances, particularly related to insurance and other welfare schemes. He also highlighted facilities including enrolment opportunities in Assam Rifles and compassionate appointments. He encouraged them to register their details and update records so that available assistance and guidance can be provided.
President of Assam Rifles Ex-Servicemen Association Mokokchung (ARESA), Chuba Ao, in his address acknowledged the support provided through Assam Rifles pension and welfare measures. He said the pension support has been helpful and appreciated the efforts of the DG Assam Rifles, stating that Ex-Servicemen who have retired are still being taken care of through welfare and health initiatives. He also informed that ARESA Mokokchung will be celebrating its Golden Jubilee in 2027 and requested continued support.
Hav Mercen Pradhan, President of Assam Rifles Ex-Servicemen Centre Kohima (ARESA), acknowledged the efforts of the DG Assam Rifles in bringing together Ex-Servicemen from across Nagaland. He said that it was due to the initiatives and efforts of the DG Assam Rifles that Ex-Servicemen Centres could be established in different in the districts of Kohima, Tuensang and Mokokchung.
He stated that the DG had advocated for such centres so that Ex-Servicemen and pensioners across the country could access necessary services and resolve pension related issues without having to travel long distances. He appreciated the efforts taken to address the grievances of pensioners, dependent pensioners and families, adding that these centres have helped in making support and assistance more accessible to the veterans.
The programme also featured cultural performances, including an Ao traditional dance and a Chang cultural dance, along with a performance by students of Assam Rifles High School, Mokokchung. The programme concluded with an interactive session between the Ex-Servicemen and Assam Rifles officials, followed by lunch for all attendees.
