Governor NN Vohra presents a critical care ambulance for the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families to the Rajya Sainik Board in Jammu on Tuesday. Tribune photo

Tribune News Service

Jammu, December 6

Governor NN Vohra has appealed to the people of the state to contribute generously towards the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund and stressed the need for involving all sections of society in the noble cause.The Governor was speaking during a function organised by the Rajya Sainik Board in connection with the Armed Forces Flag Day celebrations at Tiger Auditorium here today.He emphasised the importance of raising a large corpus fund for promoting the welfare of the ex-servicemen and their families in the state. He observed that it was “our moral responsibility to take special care of the families of our martyrs” and urged the state government to explore the ways and means for providing suitable support to the widows of the soldiers who were not receiving pension. He said he would address the Defence Minister in this regard.Vohra the Armed Forces Flag Day, observed on December 7 every year, was an important occasion to remember the valiant soldiers who had sacrificed their lives for protecting the territorial integrity of the nation. He lauded the crucial role of the armed forces, both during war and in peace, and observed that their sacrifices were founded in their bravery, devotion and dedication.On behalf of the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, the Governor presented to the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme a critical care ambulance for the welfare of the ex-servicemen and their families.Director, Rajya Sainik Board, Brig Harcharan Singh (retd) and president, Ex-Servicemen League, Maj Gen GS Jamwal (retd) spoke on the occasion.The Governor presented cheques of Rs 10,000 each to about two dozen widows and gave away prizes to winners of painting and patriotic song competitions for children. He also gave away certificates of appreciation to Jammu citizens who had donated blood for the medical care of ex-serviceman and their families.Chief Secretary BR Sharma, Principal Secretary to the Governor PK Tripathi, Principal Secretary, Home, RK Goyal, General Officer Commanding, 26 Infantry Division, Maj Gen SK Sharma, former minister RS Chib and Additional Chief Executive Officer, Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Shrine Board, MK Kumar were present on the occasion.