Governor Yadav Urges Responsive Welfare Measures for Veterans and Families

Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav has called for stronger, more responsive and compassionate welfare mechanisms for ex-servicemen, serving personnel and their families. Addressing the 24th annual general meeting of the Rajya Sainik Board at Lok Bhavan in Kohima, Yadav, who is also the Board’s president, said the annual meeting was not merely a review of schemes but a reaffirmation of the nation’s commitment to honouring those who have served the country. The meeting, attended by Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio, senior state government officials, representatives of the armed forces and the Kendriya Sainik Board, reviewed issues related to the welfare, rehabilitation and resettlement of ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, widows and their dependents. Yadav stressed that veterans should be regarded not only as beneficiaries of welfare schemes but also as valuable national resources whose discipline, leadership, courage and resilience can continue to benefit society. He called for special attention to Veer Naris, Veer Matas and families of fallen soldiers, urging sustained support in recognition of their sacrifices. The Governor also emphasised timely and effective access to healthcare, education, employment and other welfare benefits. Chief Minister Rio noted that soldiers often retire at a relatively young age to maintain an active and fit force, making their rehabilitation and resettlement particularly important. He stressed the need to prioritise pensions, healthcare, education for dependents, employment and self-employment opportunities, and effective grievance redressal. Rio reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to strengthening the institutional framework for sainik welfare, describing support for veterans and their families as both an administrative responsibility and a moral obligation.