Leh, Sept 11: In order to empower ex-servicemen, the National Institute for Entrepreneurship and Small Business Development (NIESBUD), Ladakh, in collaboration with the Directorate General Resettlement (DGR), held a special session of the Entrepreneurship Development Programme (EDP) for retiring armed forces personnel in Leh. The session was conducted by Colonel Lobzang Neema, Director of the Sainik Welfare Department for the Union Territory of Ladakh, and witnessed active participation from veterans preparing for life after service.
The interactive programme shed light on a wide spectrum of post-retirement concerns and opportunities. Participants were guided through the intricacies of pensions and retirement schemes, benefits and loan facilities available to veterans, as well as the scope of various government schemes designed to assist them. Colonel Neema also emphasised the importance of developing strong market linkages for those seeking to establish business ventures and laid out a framework for future mentorship and handholding support that could help ex-servicemen transition smoothly into entrepreneurial roles.
Dr. Aijaz Mir, Head of UTs for Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh at NIESBUD, expressed his gratitude to the Directorate General Resettlement for their collaboration and reiterated the institute’s commitment to strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem for veterans. Delivering the vote of thanks, Dr. Mir highlighted that such initiatives not only equip retiring personnel with essential knowledge but also open doors for them to contribute meaningfully to society through self-reliance and business leadership.
The event reflected the growing focus on channelising the discipline, skills, and experience of armed forces personnel into entrepreneurship, ensuring that their post-service journey remains purposeful and dignified.
