Northern Command Enhances Veteran Support in Strategic Meeting Led by Lt Gen Pratik Sharma
In a strategic move to bolster support for ex-servicemen, Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, the General Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Indian Army's Northern Command, led a comprehensive review meeting focused on veteran welfare initiatives in the region. This virtual session gathered key stakeholders and regional representatives to assess the effectiveness of ongoing welfare programs and to explore innovative approaches to better assist India's growing veteran community.
Lt Gen Sharma, who took command in April 2025, has a distinguished military career spanning over 37 years, including serving with the United Nations Operation in Côte d'Ivoire (UNOCI) and as Director General of Military Operations. He underscored the Indian Army's unwavering commitment to its veterans and urged officials to embrace the principle of "Nation First" by ensuring the dignity, well-being, and smooth integration of retired personnel and their families into civilian life.
During the meeting, several critical areas were highlighted, such as resettlement schemes, educational opportunities, support for war widows and dependents, and the enhancement of healthcare services. Special emphasis was placed on the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), with discussions addressing ongoing issues like hospital empanelment and timely reimbursement, which are longstanding concerns impacting thousands of veterans each year.
The Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, part of the Ministry of Defence, currently oversees programs benefiting over 3 million veterans, with an annual budget of approximately ₹12,000 crore. The Northern Command, with its origins dating back to 1908 during the British Indian Army era, now supervises four operational corps and plays a crucial role in both national defense and veteran support in states such as Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Punjab.
The recent review highlights the evolving role of the Indian Army, demonstrating its commitment not only as a military force but also as a community institution dedicated to the lifelong welfare of its members. Under the leadership of Lt Gen Sharma, the Northern Command is anticipated to lead several new initiatives aimed at promoting veteran welfare in the upcoming months.
