In a strategic push to enhance the welfare of ex-servicemen (ESM), Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army’s Northern Command, chaired a comprehensive review meeting focused on the region’s veteran support initiatives. The virtual session brought together key stakeholders and regional representatives to evaluate ongoing welfare programs and explore innovative solutions to better serve India’s growing veteran population.
Assuming command in April 2025, Lt Gen Sharma, whose distinguished military career spans over 37 years including service with the United Nations Operation in Côte d’Ivoire (UNOCI) and tenure as Director General of Military Operations, emphasized the Indian Army’s deep-rooted commitment to its veterans. He called on all officials to uphold the principle of “Nation First” by continuing efforts to ensure the dignity, well-being, and integration of retired personnel and their families into civilian life.
The meeting spotlighted several critical areas, including resettlement schemes, educational opportunities, support for war widows and dependents, and improvement of healthcare services. Particular attention was given to the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), with discussions addressing persistent issues such as hospital empanelment and timely reimbursement, longstanding concerns that affect thousands of veterans annually.
The Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, under the Ministry of Defence, currently administers programs for over 3 million veterans, with an annual budget allocation of approximately ₹12,000 crore. The Northern Command, which traces its lineage back to 1908 during the British Indian Army era, now oversees four operational corps and plays a vital role in both national defense and veteran outreach in states like Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab.
The latest review underscores the evolving role of the Indian Army not only as a warfighting force but also as a community institution committed to the lifelong welfare of its service members. Under Lt Gen Sharma’s leadership, the Northern Command is expected to spearhead several new veteran-friendly initiatives in the months ahead.
