Veteran Achievers Award honours post-retirement nation builders
New Delhi: Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) General Upendra Dwivedi on Tuesday felicitated four distinguished Army veterans with the Veteran Achievers Award, recognising their exceptional contributions to nation-building, social welfare and youth empowerment after retirement.
The awards were presented during the Retiring Officers’ Seminar held in the national capital, underscoring the Army’s message that service to the nation does not end with retirement.
Among the awardees, Lieutenant Colonel B S Rautela (Retd) was honoured for his exemplary work for the welfare of veterans, Veer Naris and Next of Kin. He has been actively assisting ex-servicemen in resolving legal cases and ensuring timely disbursal of emoluments and entitlements.
Lieutenant Colonel Iqbal Singh (Retd) was recognised for his pivotal role in upskilling veterans across multiple domains. His sustained efforts have helped numerous ex-servicemen transition smoothly from military life to meaningful second careers in the corporate sector.
The award also went to Havildar Congress Pradhan (Retd) for his significant grassroots work towards the upliftment and welfare of veterans and their families in his hometown of Kabisuryanagar in Odisha, through continuous community engagement and support initiatives.
Signalman Anil Kumar Jakhar (Retd) was felicitated for his dedicated efforts in motivating and training youth in sports and guiding aspirants towards careers in the Armed Forces, thereby contributing to nation-building through youth empowerment.
Congratulating the awardees, General Dwivedi said the achievements of these veterans reflect the Indian Army’s core ethos of selfless service and commitment to society. “Service is a lifelong journey. Our veterans continue to build a stronger and more united India,” he said.
The Veteran Achievers Award celebrates the enduring spirit of soldiers who, even after hanging up their uniform, continue to serve the nation with distinction.