Rajnath Singh Announces Mobile Medical Units for Ex-Servicemen in Remote Area

GG News Bureau
Akhnoor, 15th Jan. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Tuesday announced a new initiative aimed at providing medical facilities at the doorstep for ex-servicemen and their families residing in remote parts of the country. Addressing the Armed Forces Veterans’ Day event in Akhnoor, Jammu and Kashmir, Singh assured that preparations for the mobile medical units have already begun and will soon be operational, although he emphasized that it would take some time to fully implement.

Highlighting the government’s commitment to veterans’ welfare, Singh expressed his gratitude to the men and women who have safeguarded the nation. He stated, “Though we have taken several steps, I believe the introduction of mobile medical units for veterans and their families in remote areas is a major step forward.”

The minister further elaborated on the initiative, explaining that mobile units would deliver medicines and medical services directly to veterans and their families, especially in far-flung areas.

Addressing an audience of around 1,000 ex-servicemen at the Tanda Artillery Brigade, Singh also reaffirmed Jammu and Kashmir’s status as an integral part of India, calling Pakistan-occupied Kashmir the “crown jewel of India” and dismissing Pakistan’s claims to the region.

On the occasion of Makar Sankranti, Singh extended his best wishes to the veterans and referred to them as his “larger family.” He also emphasized the importance of Armed Forces Veterans’ Day, recalling the courage and sacrifices of the Indian Armed Forces during the 1965 India-Pakistan war. This year marks the diamond jubilee of the war, and Singh paid tribute to the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice.

Reflecting on India’s military history, Singh noted, “Pakistan has lost every war it fought against India—be it in 1948, 1965, 1971, or during the 1999 Kargil conflict.” He further credited the victories to the bravery, courage, and sacrifice of the Indian Armed Forces.

Drawing parallels between the freedom struggle and today’s armed forces, Singh recalled the sacrifices of revolutionary figures like Chandrashekhar Azad, Bhagat Singh, and Ashfaqulla Khan, emphasizing that the same sense of pride and honor that motivated them continues to inspire today’s soldiers.

On the subject of terrorism, Singh strongly condemned Pakistan’s role in promoting illegal infiltration and terrorism. He stated, “Since 1965, Pakistan has attempted to infiltrate terrorists into India. Even today, over 80 percent of the terrorists infiltrating India are from Pakistan.” The Defence Minister asserted that the abrogation of Article 370 has significantly improved the situation on the ground, marking a turning point in the region’s security.