Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi felicitated four distinguished veterans with the Veteran Achievers Award during his visit to Bengaluru, recognising their exceptional contributions to nation-building, social welfare, and community empowerment.
The award ceremony honoured veterans who have made a significant impact beyond their military service, contributing to agriculture, public administration, veteran welfare, and digital awareness initiatives.
Among the awardees, Havildar SC Thimmaiah (Retd) was recognised for transforming rural livelihoods in Kodagu through innovative integrated agro-farming practices, promoting multi-cropping systems and labour-saving techniques. His work has earned accolades, including recognition from the Indian Council of Agricultural Research and the Karnataka Rajyotsava Award.
Colonel SS Rajan (Retd) was honoured for his dedicated efforts in veteran welfare and resettlement, actively addressing issues faced by ex-servicemen and representing them before state authorities. He has also played a key role in organising commemorative events such as Kargil Diwas and Vijay Diwas at the National Military Memorial in Bengaluru.
Colonel Nitteguthu Sharath Bhandaray (Retd) was acknowledged for his contributions to public administration and legal redressal, particularly as Chairman of the Lok Adalat under the Karnataka High Court, where he resolved numerous grievances of veterans. He has also led several social initiatives supporting economically weaker sections and guiding youth towards careers in the Armed Forces.
Commander Veeraghava Kuppuswamy Santhanam (Retd) was recognised for leveraging digital platforms to assist the veteran community, especially in spreading awareness about Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) policies. Through over 128 informative videos and on-ground assistance in hospitals, he has helped veterans access healthcare benefits and navigate reimbursement processes.
Gen Dwivedi commended the awardees for their continued dedication to society, emphasising that their contributions reflect the enduring spirit of service even beyond active duty.
The initiative highlights the Indian Army’s commitment to honouring veterans who continue to play a vital role in nation-building and community development.
