Kupwara, July 27: As part of its continued efforts to strengthen engagement with the veteran community, the Zila Sainik Welfare Office (ZSWO), Kupwara, organised an Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Outreach and Interaction Programme at Tangdhar on Monday. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation from a large number of ex-servicemen, war widows and dependents from the region.
Welfare Schemes and Grievance Redressal
During the programme, officials from the Zila Sainik Welfare Office briefed participants on various welfare schemes and benefits available to ex-servicemen, war widows and their families.
The interaction also provided a platform for veterans to raise service-related grievances. Several issues were addressed and resolved on the spot, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to ensuring accessible and responsive welfare services for the veteran community.
Awareness Against Drug Abuse
A key focus of the outreach programme was creating awareness about the growing threat of drug abuse.
Officials urged ex-servicemen to actively support anti-drug campaigns and use their leadership and influence within society to educate young people and families about the dangers of narcotics.
Participants were encouraged to work collectively with local communities and stakeholders to help build a drug-free society.
Promoting Self-Reliance and Entrepreneurship
The ZSWO team also highlighted the importance of self-reliance after retirement from military service.
Veterans were encouraged to explore self-employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, with officials urging them to become job creators rather than job seekers by taking advantage of various government support schemes.
Information on Government Schemes
Participants were provided detailed information about a range of government initiatives, including:
- Mission YUVA
- Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB) schemes
- Skill development programmes
- Agriculture and allied sector opportunities
- Employment generation initiatives
- Industrial and entrepreneurship support schemes
The programme aimed to enhance awareness about sustainable livelihood opportunities available for ex-servicemen and their families.
Commitment to Nation-Building
The event concluded with an interactive session, where participants appreciated the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to contributing to nation-building and community development even after retirement from active military service.
The Zila Sainik Welfare Office, Kupwara, reiterated its commitment to organising similar outreach programmes in the future to ensure that every ex-serviceman and their family remains informed, empowered and connected with the welfare ecosystem.