10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day Observed Nationwide

India marked the 10th Defence Forces Veterans’ Day on January 14, 2026, with nationwide events honouring the service, sacrifice and continued contribution of ex-servicemen. Rallies, wreath-laying ceremonies, grievance redressal counters and facilitation help desks were organised across States and Union Territories, reflecting the country’s institutional and social commitment towards veterans.

Main National समारोह at Manekshaw Centre

The central समारोह was held at the Manekshaw Centre, Delhi Cantt, and was graced by Raksha Mantri “Rajnath Singh”. Around 2,500 veterans from Delhi and NCR participated. Addressing the gathering, he described veterans as living pillars of national consciousness and urged them to guide youth, mentor Agniveers, assist civil administration during emergencies and strengthen grassroots patriotism. He underlined that a soldier never truly retires, as the spirit of service remains lifelong.

Recognition of Operation Pawan and IPKF Sacrifice

The Raksha Mantri paid special tribute to ex-servicemen who participated in Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka as part of the Indian Peacekeeping Force. He acknowledged that their courage and sacrifices did not receive due recognition earlier. He noted that under the leadership of “Narendra Modi”, the Government has formally recognised IPKF contributions, including homage at the National War Memorial, correcting a long-standing historical neglect.

Veterans’ Welfare and Government Initiatives

Rajnath Singh reiterated the Government’s resolve towards veterans’ welfare, highlighting implementation of One Rank One Pension and expansion of the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme. Emphasis was laid on telemedicine, rural health outreach, skill development, priority employment in public enterprises and encouragement for veteran entrepreneurship to ensure dignity and self-reliance in post-retirement life.

Imporatnt Facts for Exams

• Defence Forces Veterans’ Day is observed annually on 14 January.
• The day commemorates the retirement of Field Marshal KM Cariappa in 1953.
• One Rank One Pension aims to ensure uniform pension for same rank and service length.
• ECHS currently provides healthcare benefits to over 64 lakh beneficiaries.

Nationwide Participation and Institutional Support

Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare) “Sukriti Likhi” highlighted that nearly 60,000 soldiers retire annually, creating a veteran population of about 3.5 million. Senior military leadership, including CDS “Anil Chauhan”, attended the event. Veterans’ rallies were held in cities such as Amritsar, Pune, Guwahati and Kochi, with Rajya and Zila Sainik Boards coordinating outreach, grievance redressal and awareness activities nationwide.