In a heartfelt gesture of respect and unity, the Vajra Corps of the Indian Army organized a veterans’ interaction today at the Jalandhar Cantonment. This significant event brought together retired service members and active personnel to celebrate the enduring bond between soldiers and citizens, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to its veteran community.
Addressing a packed auditorium, Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Vajra Corps, conveyed his deep appreciation for the contributions made by veterans both during and after their military service. He referred to them as vital ambassadors of the Army, emphasizing their role in enhancing public understanding and support for the military forces.
During his speech, the GOC provided a comprehensive overview of the current security landscape, highlighting the Army’s preparedness to tackle evolving threats. He stressed that gatherings like this not only serve as tributes to veterans but also act as platforms for sharing valuable insights across different generations of soldiers.
The event saw veterans from diverse decades come together to exchange stories and engage with serving personnel. Many attendees captured the moment with photographs and selfies, posing in front of a backdrop adorned with the Vajra Corps insignia and the date “23rd May 2025,” symbolizing the Corps’ proud legacy.
Known as XI Corps, Vajra Corps holds a distinguished place in Indian military history. Established in 1950 as the first Corps of independent India, it has amassed 25 battle honours, four honour titles, and 38 theatre honours. The Corps’ gallantry during critical battles on the Western Front in 1965 and 1971—particularly at Khem Karan and Dograi—has solidified its reputation for excellence.
This event echoes similar initiatives in the past by the Indian Army, including the 2021 Swarnim Vijay Varsh celebrations, where veterans were honored by Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore. Such consistent efforts reflect the Army’s enduring commitment to keeping veterans engaged and celebrated as integral members of its extended family.
The gathering at Jalandhar served not just to pay tribute to the past but also to reaffirm the current and future significance of veterans in national security and societal harmony. Through these interactions, the Indian Army continues to foster a bridge of trust and pride between its forces and the citizens they have pledged to serve.
