In a heartfelt ceremony held in Nagpur, the Southern Command of the Indian Army honored the exceptional contributions of its veterans by presenting the coveted “Veteran Achievers Award.” The event, themed “Honouring Our Veterans,” was led by Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Southern Command, who personally recognized three retired servicemen for their outstanding efforts in uplifting communities and making significant transformations following their military service.
The ceremony served as a testament to the Indian Army’s unwavering commitment to acknowledging the ongoing dedication of ex-servicemen in the process of nation-building. The backdrop proudly displayed the army’s motto, symbolizing pride and honor, while the award recipients stood as shining examples of service extended beyond the battlefield.
Among the honorees was Lt Col Vikram Mehta (Retd), who was recognized for his transformative initiatives in Gadchiroli, a region historically challenged by Naxal insurgency. Mehta, leading a small team, was instrumental in forging connections with the local tribal population, facilitating the revival of the Surjagarh Iron Ore Mines. His collaboration with Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd led to the establishment of a Direct Reduced Iron (DRI) Steel Plant in Konsari, with a production capacity of 72,000 metric tons per annum. This project not only paved the way for substantial job creation but also breathed new life into an area that had been economically marginalized. Lloyds Metals is additionally planning a green steel plant and an 8 million ton per annum pellet plant, indicating a prosperous trajectory for the region’s future.
Subedar Major Rishi Wanjari (Retd), another awardee, was honored for his profound humanitarian efforts as an instructor at the Gondwana Sainik School in Gadchiroli. Wanjari utilized his personal savings to establish an eight-bed shelter aimed at supporting the mentally ill and elderly, offering free food, accommodation, and care. Since 2020, his shelter has aided ten individuals, with one successfully reintegrating into the workforce after recovery. His unwavering commitment to funding all expenses has made him a vital source of hope for the most vulnerable members of his community.
Naik Neelkanth Vyas (Retd) also received recognition for his relentless endeavors in promoting the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families. Affiliated with the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), Vyas has facilitated self-employment opportunities for 40 ex-servicemen and 30 women, significantly enhancing livelihoods within the veteran community. In addition, he provides free assistance with various welfare schemes, including the Kendriya Sainik Board documentation, pension-related issues, and income tax return filings. Vyas has also been pivotal in supporting veteran entrepreneurs, ensuring they have access to resources and guidance necessary for their success.
The ceremony, attended by senior military officials and dignitaries, highlighted the Indian Army’s pride in the continued service of its veterans to society. Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth commended the awardees for their “commendable contributions,” underlining the significance of their work in inspiring others to engage in community service. The event concluded with a commemorative group photograph featuring the award recipients alongside dignitaries, positioned in front of the colorful “Veteran Achievers Award” backdrop, epitomizing unity and honor.
This initiative by the Southern Command exemplifies the Indian Army’s broader mission to support its veterans through recognition and welfare programs, reinforcing their legacy of service and ensuring it continues to foster a positive impact on the nation.
