As Uttarakhand marked 25 years of its formation, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami led a special celebration by hosting an Ex-Servicemen’s Conference in Haldwani. The event, held at MBPG College, honoured the state’s proud military heritage and its contribution to India’s defence forces. The occasion was both a celebration of statehood and a tribute to the brave soldiers and their families who have served the nation with dedication.
Hundreds of ex-servicemen, Veer Naris (widows of soldiers), and their families attended the event from across the state. The gathering reflected Uttarakhand’s identity as a “land of soldiers,” where nearly every family has at least one member serving or having served in the armed forces. CM Dhami expressed deep respect for the sacrifices made by these families, saying that the state’s foundation rests on their courage and service.
During his address, Chief Minister Dhami announced several welfare initiatives aimed at improving the lives of servicemen, ex-servicemen, and their families. He said that the state government is committed to strengthening the welfare framework for soldiers and modernising the related departments for better service delivery.
Dhami announced that the Sainik Welfare Department would undergo restructuring and modernisation to make it more efficient, transparent, and responsive to the needs of servicemen. This move aims to ensure that benefits reach beneficiaries faster and with less bureaucratic delay.
The Chief Minister also shared plans for rebuilding District Sainik Welfare Offices and residential facilities in key towns such as Haldwani, Almora, and Pauri. These upgrades are expected to provide a better working environment for staff and improved services for visiting soldiers and their families.
In a significant move to support Veer Naris, Dhami announced that financial assistance for home construction would be increased from ₹2 lakh to ₹5 lakh. This increase, he said, is meant to help families build safer and more comfortable homes in recognition of the sacrifices made by their loved ones.
The government also plans to construct a modern hostel in Haldwani for the children of servicemen. The hostel will accommodate around 150 students, providing them with safe living conditions and access to quality education. Dhami noted that the initiative aims to ensure that children of those who serve the nation do not face educational disadvantages due to financial or geographical challenges.
CM Dhami also spoke about India’s growing self-reliance in defence production. Referring to recent advancements in indigenous military technology, he mentioned that India has developed world-class systems such as the BrahMos and Akash missiles. He highlighted that these technologies played a key role during Operation Sindhu Megh, showcasing India’s capability to produce advanced weapons domestically.
Dhami said that the country’s focus on “Atmanirbharta” (self-reliance) in defence manufacturing is a tribute to the vision of a strong and independent India. He added that Uttarakhand’s soldiers, who serve across various branches of the armed forces, have been key contributors to India’s security and honour.
The Chief Minister emphasised that the welfare of soldiers and their families will always remain a top priority for his government. He mentioned that the state’s development is deeply tied to the discipline, sacrifice, and patriotism of its servicemen. Dhami assured that the government will continue to introduce welfare schemes that reflect gratitude towards the armed forces community.
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Forest Minister Subodh Uniyal, who also addressed the event, highlighted Uttarakhand’s exceptional contribution to the Indian military. He said the state remains one of the most soldier-dense regions in India, with thousands of youth joining the defence services every year. Uniyal praised the government’s efforts to improve support systems for soldiers and their families, noting that these steps strengthen both morale and community bonds.
The event in Haldwani served not just as a commemoration of Uttarakhand’s 25th anniversary but also as a heartfelt recognition of its unique identity as a state of valour and patriotism. The conference concluded with a strong message of unity and gratitude, as Dhami reiterated his commitment to honouring the contributions of the state’s servicemen and ensuring that their welfare remains at the heart of policy decisions.
In his closing remarks, CM Dhami said, “Every family in Uttarakhand has a soldier, a hero who protects our borders and our nation. The pride we feel for them is the true spirit of our statehood.” The silver jubilee celebrations thus became a symbol of remembrance, pride, and renewed commitment to those who continue to defend the nation, both in service and in spirit.
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