In a heartfelt gesture of respect and unity, the Vajra Corps of the Indian Army organized a veterans’ interaction today at the Jalandhar Cantonment. The event brought together retired service members and active personnel to celebrate the enduring bond between soldiers and citizens, reinforcing the Army’s commitment to its veteran community.
Addressing a packed auditorium, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Vajra Corps, Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, expressed deep appreciation for the contributions made by veterans both during and after their military service. He described them as vital ambassadors of the Army, capable of strengthening public understanding and support for the forces.
During his speech, the GOC also provided a comprehensive overview of the current security situation, underlining the Army’s preparedness to address evolving threats. He noted that interactions like these serve not only as a tribute to veterans but also as platforms for sharing valuable insights across generations of soldiers.
Veterans from different decades attended the event, exchanging stories and engaging with serving personnel. Many captured the moment in photographs and selfies, standing before a backdrop bearing the Vajra Corps insignia and the date “23rd May 2025,” a nod to the Corps’ proud legacy.
Also known as XI Corps, Vajra Corps holds a special place in Indian military history. Raised in 1950 as the first Corps of Independent India, it has since earned 25 battle honours, four honour titles, and 38 theatre honours. Its valour during key battles on the Western Front in 1965 and 1971—most notably at Khem Karan and Dograi—has cemented its reputation for excellence.
This event echoes similar past initiatives by the Indian Army, including the 2021 Swarnim Vijay Varsh celebrations during which veterans were felicitated by Punjab Governor VP Singh Badnore. These consistent efforts reflect the Army’s enduring commitment to keeping veterans engaged and honored as part of its extended family.
The gathering in Jalandhar not only paid tribute to the past but also reaffirmed the present and future importance of veterans in national security and societal harmony. Through such interactions, the Indian Army continues to build a bridge of trust and pride between its forces and the people they serve.
