Chief Minister Attends 10th Armed Forces Veteran Day cum Ex-Services Reunion of Mizoram

Aizawl, Jan 2026: The 10th Armed Forces Veteran Day cum Ex-Services Reunion of Mizoram was organized today at Vawiin Khan Loch House (Gajraj Hall), Aizawl, by the Sainik Welfare & Resettlement Department. The event was graced by Chief Minister Pu Lalduhoma, Home Minister Pu K. Sapdanga, MLA and CM Adviser Pu TBC Lalvenchhunga, and Lt. Col. Clement Lalhmingthanga, MLA.

During the event, the Chief Minister highlighted the significant contribution of Mizo soldiers to India’s defense and emphasized how Mizoram has consistently produced disciplined and courageous personnel for the nation. He acknowledged the dedication of armed forces personnel who serve selflessly and assured that the state is committed to supporting veterans and their families.

Chief Minister Lalduhoma also mentioned that the Armed Forces Veteran Day is an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices of soldiers, their families, and the service rendered by Mizo personnel across India. He highlighted the welfare initiatives undertaken by the Mizoram government, including financial support, pensions, and other assistance programs for ex-servicemen.

The Home Minister, Pu K. Sapdanga, in his address, emphasized that Mizoram takes pride in the bravery and discipline of its veterans. He noted that Armed Forces Veteran Day is a reminder of their contributions to national security and the exemplary role they play in the community.

Key Welfare Measures Announced:

• For the financial year, Penury Grants totaling Rs. 49.44 lakh have been provided to 65 ex-servicemen.
• Scholarships worth Rs. 47.4 lakh have been granted to children of ex-servicemen.
• Rs. 2.5 lakh allocated for the welfare of ex-servicemen widows and Rs. 4 lakh for establishing shops for veterans.
• A total of Rs. 16 lakh has been disbursed for ex-servicemen’s urgent welfare needs during the current financial year.
• The Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme now includes ZMC & H and Zemabawk Cancer Hospital, with a 5% reservation for ex-servicemen.
• Currently, Mizoram has 6,170 ex-servicemen and 2,483 dependents receiving support under these schemes. The Central Government’s pension and welfare initiatives amount to Rs. 180 crore annually.

The Chief Minister also honored Captain Lalrinawma Sailo, a Mizo soldier who was awarded the Kirti Chakra, recognizing his exceptional bravery. Mizoram is the only state to celebrate the recognition of Kirti Chakra awardees in this manner.

Sainik Welfare Department’s Role:
Surgeon Lt. Commander Pu Lalnuntluanga, Director of Sainik Welfare & Resettlement, noted that Armed Forces Veteran Day has been observed in India since January 14, 2017, commemorating the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Armed Forces, Field Marshal KM Cariappa OBE, who retired in 1953. This year marks the 10th celebration of the event in Mizoram. The Sainik Welfare Department has been actively facilitating veteran welfare and supporting their families, helping ex-servicemen reintegrate into civilian life and ensuring their contributions to national security are recognized.

This celebration underscores Mizoram’s commitment to honoring the courage, dedication, and welfare of its veterans while strengthening community ties with armed forces personnel.