A Veteran Rally and SPARSH Outreach Programme was organised at Boko in Assam jointly by the Controller of Defence Accounts (CDA), Guwahati, Zila Sainik Welfare Office, Kamrup (M), and Boko Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Association to address the welfare needs and pension-related grievances of Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their dependants.
The programme provided a platform for more than 300 veterans and their families to interact directly with CDA Guwahati officials and seek assistance on issues related to pension, SPARSH services, documentation, corrections in pension records, grievances and other service-related entitlements.
Officials from CDA Guwahati extended necessary guidance and assistance to veterans in resolving pension-related issues and accessing various welfare benefits. Special attention was given to the difficulties faced by elderly veterans, widows and dependants in accessing SPARSH services.
Speaking on the occasion, Col Chiranjeet Konwer, Zila Sainik Welfare Officer, Kamrup (M), said the programme aimed not only to provide information but also to address individual grievances, update records, facilitate digital services and ensure that eligible beneficiaries receive their rightful entitlements without hardship.
Shri JS Buq, IDAS, Deputy Controller, and Ms Aotula Ozukum, IDAS, Assistant Controller, highlighted the SPARSH initiative, which aims to modernise and streamline the defence pension administration system.
The Boko ESM Association played an important role in coordinating the programme and mobilising veterans from Boko and adjoining areas.
The initiative reaffirmed the commitment towards the welfare, dignity and well-being of veterans and their families, upholding the spirit of “Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier.”