“Once a Soldier, Always a Soldier”: J&K Minister Satish Sharma Honors Veterans at Rajouri Rally
RAJOURI, JANUARY 13, 2026 :- In a powerful tribute to the courage and resilience of the Indian Armed Forces, the Minister for Food, Civil Supplies, and IT, Satish Sharma, addressed a massive gathering during the 10th Veterans’ Day and Ex-Servicemen Day rally at Rajouri today.
Organized by the Northern Command, the event featured top military brass, including Lieutenant General Prateek Sharma, GOC-in-C Northern Command, and Lieutenant General P.K. Mishra, GOC White Knight Corps.
Speaking to a crowd of ex-servicemen, Veer Naris, and their families, the Minister emphasized that Veterans’ Day is a solemn reminder of the sacrifices made to safeguard India’s sovereignty, stating that the global respect earned by the nation is a direct result of the professionalism and bravery of its soldiers.
The Minister, becoming visibly emotional, shared a personal connection to the military, noting that his own father was an ex-serviceman. He remarked that the values of discipline and service he imbibed at home define the spirit of a soldier, famously declaring, “Once a soldier, always a soldier.”
He highlighted that a veteran’s sense of duty does not end at retirement; instead, they continue to act as torchbearers of patriotism and mentors for the youth. Minister Sharma specifically lauded the role of retired soldiers in Jammu and Kashmir for their contributions to peace-building and social harmony through grassroots initiatives like Operation Sadbhavana, noting that the current era of stability in the Union Territory is built upon the foundation of their dedication.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to the welfare of the veteran community, the Minister detailed ongoing efforts to strengthen support systems such as the Army Welfare Placement Organisation (AWPO) and the State Soldiers’ Welfare Board. He assured that medical, legal, and rehabilitation services are being prioritized to ensure a dignified life for those who served.
As a tangible gesture of support, specialized scooters were distributed to disabled soldiers to enhance their independence. The rally, which featured high-energy cultural performances by the Madras and Punjab Regiments, concluded with an interactive session between the Minister, NCC cadets, and veterans, reinforcing the deep-rooted bond between the government, the military, and the public.