KUPWARA: As part of its ongoing outreach programme to strengthen engagement with the veteran community, the Zila Sainik Welfare Office (ZSWO), Kupwara organised an Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Interaction Meet at Tangdhar on Monday. The programme witnessed enthusiastic participation by a large number of ex-servicemen, war widows and dependents from the region.
During the interaction, officials from ZSWO briefed the participants on various welfare schemes and benefits available to ex-servicemen, widows and their families. Individual grievances and service-related issues brought forward by the attendees were heard and several cases were resolved on the spot, reaffirming the office’s commitment to responsive and accessible veteran welfare.
The gathering also focused on the growing challenge of drug abuse, with participants being sensitised about the need for collective action by families, communities and all stakeholders to safeguard the youth from the menace of narcotics. Ex-servicemen were encouraged to play an active role in spreading awareness and contributing towards a drug-free society through their leadership and influence within their communities.
Emphasising the importance of self-reliance, the ZSWO team urged ex-servicemen to make their second innings in civilian life productive and meaningful by exploring self-employment and entrepreneurship opportunities. Veterans were encouraged to become job creators rather than job seekers by leveraging the numerous entrepreneurship and livelihood schemes offered by the Government of India and the Union Territory Administration.
The participants were also provided comprehensive information on various resource agencies and government initiatives, including opportunities in agriculture and allied sectors, skill development, industries, employment generation, Mission YUVA, and schemes offered by the Khadi and Village Industries Board (KVIB). The interaction enabled veterans to better understand the avenues available for economic empowerment and sustainable livelihood.
The outreach programme concluded with an interactive session, where participants appreciated the initiative and reaffirmed their commitment to contributing towards nation-building and community development even after retirement from active military service. The Zila Sainik Welfare Office reiterated its resolve to continue organising such programmes to ensure that every ex-serviceman and their family remains informed, empowered and connected with the welfare ecosystem.
