उपराज्यपाल, दिल्ली
At the outset, I thank you all for gathering here today to commemorate Armed Forces Flag Day, a solemn occasion that pays tribute to the brave men and women who have dedicated their lives to defending our Nation. As we come together to honour their unwavering commitment, it is a privilege for me to address you on this special occasion.
02. I am honoured to welcome General Upendra Dwivedi, the Chief of Army Staff and his wife Mrs Sunita Dwivedi and Admiral Dinesh Tripathi, Chief of Naval Staff and his wife Mrs Shashi Tripathi to the Raj Niwas for the Flag Day Celebrations. This is indeed historical. It is happening for the first time that Service Chiefs are participating in this event. This occasion becomes all the more special, as I am told, that both the Chiefs present today, are classmates from Sainik School, Rewa. They both are an inspiration and I thank them for their presence.
03. I am delighted to be felicitating the "Warriors” from Delhi and extend my heartiest congratulations to you and your family, for the coveted awards bestowed upon them, by the Hon'ble President of India. We draw inspiration from you and I personally feel that you energize everyone.
04. I compliment the NCC Girl Cadets for showcasing a spectacular cultural programme for all of us. You truly are the embodiment of Nari- Shakti. In a short time, you displayed our rich "Bhartiya Cultural Diversity". I congratulate all of you and bless you on behalf of all present here.
05. I also thank Admiral Tripathi, the Chief of Naval Staff, for presenting this Tri-Service Veterans Cup for Golf. It is heartening that this shall now become a permanent annual fixture under the aegis of Rajya Sainik Board, at the state of the art Dwarka Golf Course which is about to be commissioned soon.
06. It is a befitting tribute to the Veteran Community and shall serve as an inspiration to the youth of our Nation. I also take this solemn occasion to announce that all Veterans of Delhi shall be considered in Govt category for membership of all Golf Courses and Sports Complexes run by the Delhi Development Authority.
Dear Friends,
07. Armed Forces Flag Day also serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by our Ex-Servicemen upon their return to civil life. They retire young. Transition can be arduous, both for them and their families. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that their interests are well attended to and not forgotten. We must provide them with care, support and opportunities they need to re-integrate into society and lead a fulfilling life after having served the country. I have directed RSB to go for full automation and update the data bank for Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and Dependents, and reach out to everyone in Delhi.
08. Today, I, on behalf of every resident of Delhi, pay homage to those who have made supreme sacrifice in their line of duty. Veer Naris are heroes in their own right. They are embodiment of strength, resilience and courage. They have endured unimaginable loss, yet they continue to stand tall and carry the torch of fallen heroes. Their sacrifice deserved our utmost respect and admiration. We as a community and as a Nation, are here to offer our unwavering support and love to our Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their children.
09. In order to reach out to our Veteran Community and Veer Naris, I remain committed to better employment opportunities to resettle Ex-Servicemen. I exhort the Chief Secretary to accord all support to Rajya Sainik Board in this endeavor. I wish you God Speed and Good Luck.
10. I am also pleased to announce, that the monetary amount for 10 schemes being paid out of Armed Forces Flag Day fund, shall at least be doubled or even more w.e.f 01st January 2025. This shall immensely benefit our Veterans Community, Veer Naris and their Children.
11. I call upon the Service Chiefs to help maximize Serving Soldiers and their families to get registered with election commission and obtain Voter's Identity Card to exercise their franchise in the upcoming State Election to strengthen our National priorities. The Rajya Sainik Board shall serve as a nodal agency in coordinating such efforts with the Civil Administration.
12. To all of us gathered here today and to the people of Delhi, I call upon to commit ourselves to supporting Ex-Servicemen, War Widows and their families in any way that we can and appeal to all to donate generously for the Flag Day.
JAI HIND