HT Bureau
GUWAHATI, Dec 7: Assam joined the nation in observing Armed Forces Flag Day on Sunday, with a solemn ceremony held at Lok Bhavan under the leadership of Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya.
The day, observed annually on December 7 since 1949, honours the bravery, sacrifice and steadfast service of India’s armed forces.
Addressing Veer Naris, disabled soldiers, veterans, serving personnel and senior dignitaries, Governor Acharya paid heartfelt tribute to the martyrs and soldiers who guard the nation’s borders in the most challenging conditions.
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He said Armed Forces Flag Day serves as a reminder of every citizen’s duty to acknowledge the immense contributions of the armed forces, whose courage, discipline and compassion remain central to national security.
The Governor noted that Assam is home to nearly 42,000 ex-servicemen and more than 10,000 Veer Naris, highlighting the State’s strong military legacy.
Commending the efforts of the Directorate of Sainik Welfare and the 21 District Sainik Welfare Offices, he said the State is committed to ensuring continued support for veterans and their families.
During the programme, Governor Acharya released a Wall and Table Calendar showcasing the Directorate’s activities and felicitated five Veteran Achievers from Assam for their notable contributions.
A major highlight was the launch of the ‘Sainik Tujhe Salaam’ initiative, under which Armed Forces veterans aged 90 and above, along with Veer Naris and Veer Mothers, will be honoured at their homes annually on Armed Forces Flag Day by district administrations and Zila Sainik Welfare Offices.
The Governor also recalled Assam’s special commendation by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh at the National Conference in New Delhi for exemplary work in ex-servicemen welfare.
He further outlined Lok Bhavan’s youth outreach initiative—the ‘Assam Governor Rashtriya Kritagyata aur Jagrrokta Yojana’—designed to connect students with the lives and experiences of soldiers.
Appealing for generous contributions to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund, the Governor said that while no tribute can match the sacrifices of soldiers, public support can help alleviate the hardships faced by their families.
He expressed confidence that Assam will continue to work tirelessly for the welfare of serving personnel, veterans and their next of kin.
Chief secretary Ravi Kota, senior officials, serving and retired defence officers, war widows and disabled soldiers were among those present at the ceremony.
Later in the day, Governor Acharya visited the residence of Capt Jatindra Chandra Roy at Satgaon, where he felicitated the war veteran with a Prasansha Patra and a traditional phulam gamosa in recognition of his service to the nation.
