Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi, during his visit to Dehradun, Uttarakhand, honored two exceptional veterans with the prestigious ‘Veterans Achievers Award’ for their remarkable contributions to society post-retirement.
Colonel PS Bindra (Retd), a retired officer from the Army Service Corps (ASC), was recognized for his pioneering work in waste management, scrap recycling, and environmental sustainability.
A Brand Ambassador for the Swachh Bharat Abhiyan, Colonel Bindra has been instrumental in driving cleanliness campaigns and advocating for youth empowerment and education. His innovative agricultural and recycling initiatives have brought transformative change to communities in Karnal and Pilibhit Districts, setting an example of sustainable development.
Havildar Manoj Semwal (Retd), a veteran of the Garhwal Rifles and a native of Rudraprayag, Uttarakhand, was honored for his environmental efforts during the annual Kedarnath Yatra. Recognizing the ecological challenges posed by animal waste from the large-scale movement of horses and mules, Havildar Semwal formed a local committee to address the issue sustainably. His initiative not only manages waste effectively but also creates biofertilizers and bricks, benefiting local communities while preserving the fragile Himalayan ecosystem.
The ‘Veterans Achievers Award’ celebrates the unwavering spirit of these individuals, who continue to contribute to the nation and society beyond their service years. Their dedication to environmental sustainability and community upliftment exemplifies the ethos of selfless service that defines the Indian Army.
