Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has called for stronger, responsive and compassionate welfare mechanisms for ex-servicemen, serving defence personnel and their families.
Addressing the 24th annual general meeting of the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB), Nagaland, at Lok Bhavan in Kohima on Monday, Yadav, who is also president of the RSB, said the annual meeting was not simply a review of existing welfare schemes but also a reaffirmation of the nation’s commitment to honouring and supporting those who have served the country.
Yadav described the Rajya Sainik Board as an important link between the Armed Forces, the government and the veteran community. He said the board plays a key role in facilitating welfare measures, addressing grievances and ensuring that assistance reaches beneficiaries in a timely manner.
The Governor said the responsibility towards soldiers should not end with their active service. Retirement, he added, should be accompanied by a smooth, dignified and secure transition to civilian life.
He also said ex-servicemen should not be viewed only as beneficiaries of welfare schemes but as a valuable national resource. Their discipline, leadership, courage and resilience, he said, could continue to contribute to society even after their military service.
Yadav called for special attention to Veer Naris, Veer Matas and families of fallen soldiers. He said the sacrifices made by these families, along with the emotional and personal costs they carry throughout their lives, require sustained support from the government and society.
The Governor stressed the need for timely and effective delivery of benefits related to healthcare, education, employment and financial assistance. He also called for better coordination among the Rajya Sainik Board, Zila Sainik Boards, district administrations, government departments, military authorities and ex-servicemen associations.
According to Yadav, veterans’ welfare policies must also keep pace with changing needs. He highlighted healthcare, employment, financial security, education and access to digital services as areas requiring continued attention.
He further called for greater support for elderly veterans and families living in remote areas. Technology-enabled services and responsive grievance redressal mechanisms, he said, could help ensure that veterans and their families are able to access government assistance without unnecessary difficulties.
Speaking at the meeting, Nagaland Chief Minister Dr Neiphiu Rio said national security and defence were essential for the country’s development. He said the morale and commitment of defence personnel were as important as modern equipment and technology in maintaining national security.
