In a heartfelt ceremony held in Nagpur, the Southern Command of the Indian Army celebrated the remarkable contributions of its veterans by presenting the prestigious “Veteran Achievers Award.” Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief, Southern Command, personally felicitated three retired servicemen for their exemplary efforts in transforming communities and uplifting lives after their military service.
The event, themed “Honouring Our Veterans,” highlighted the Indian Army’s commitment to recognizing the continued dedication of its ex-servicemen in nation-building. The backdrop of the ceremony proudly displayed the motto, with the recipients standing as shining examples of service beyond the battlefield.
Lt Col Vikram Mehta (Retd): A Catalyst for Development in Gadchiroli
Lt Col Vikram Mehta (Retd) was honored for his transformative work in Gadchiroli, a region once plagued by Naxal insurgency. Leading a two-member team, Mehta played a pivotal role in connecting with the local tribal population, paving the way for the revival of the Surjagarh Iron Ore Mines. His efforts, in collaboration with Lloyds Metals and Energy Ltd, also led to the establishment of a DRI Steel Plant in Konsari, Gadchiroli, with a capacity of 72,000 MTPA. This initiative has created thousands of jobs, fostering economic growth and development in an area that had long been marginalized. Lloyds Metals is further planning a green steel plant and an 8 Mtpa pellet plant, signaling a brighter future for the region.
Subedar Major Rishi Wanjari (Retd): A Beacon of Compassion
Subedar Major Rishi Wanjari (Retd), an instructor at Gondwana Sainik School in Gadchiroli, was recognized for his selfless humanitarian efforts. Using his personal funds, Wanjari established an eight-bed shelter for the mentally ill and elderly, providing free food, accommodation, and care. Since 2020, his initiative has supported ten individuals, with one person fully recovering and securing employment. Wanjari’s dedication to bearing all expenses himself has made him a pillar of hope for the most vulnerable in his community.
Naik Neelkanth Vyas (Retd): Empowering Veterans and Families
Naik Neelkanth Vyas (Retd) was awarded for his tireless work in supporting the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families. Associated with the Life Insurance Corporation (LIC), Vyas has facilitated self-employment opportunities for 40 ex-servicemen and 30 women. Additionally, he provides free assistance with Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) welfare schemes, SPARSH documentation, pension issues, and income tax return filings. Vyas has also been instrumental in helping veteran entrepreneurs, ensuring they have the resources and guidance to succeed.
The ceremony, attended by senior military officials, underscored the Indian Army’s pride in its veterans’ continued service to society. Lt Gen Dhiraj Seth lauded the awardees for their “commendable contributions,” emphasizing the importance of their work in inspiring others. The event also featured a group photograph of the awardees alongside other dignitaries, seated in front of the vibrant “Veteran Achievers Award” backdrop, symbolizing unity and honor.
This initiative by the Southern Command reflects the Indian Army’s broader mission to support its veterans through recognition and welfare programs, ensuring their legacy of service continues to impact the nation positively.
