Jammu, 10 August (H.S.): As a precursor to AWWA Day, celebrated on 23 August, an outreach event was organised at Military Hospital Satwari on 09 Aug 2026 to strengthen the bond between the Defence Forces and the citizens of Jammu and to further the welfare of soldiers’ families, War Wounded Soldiers, Veer Naris and Ex-Servicemen (ESM).

The Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) works towards inculcating Hope, Trust and Confidence amongst the families of soldiers through its various outreach programmes and welfare activities. Continuing this endeavour, citizens of Jammu came forward to donate 13 wheelchairs to facilitate the movement of old ESM, Veer Naris and Disabled Soldiers within the Military Hospital complex.

The event was conceptualised and planned by Brig (Retd) Harcharan Singh and Mrs Paramjit Kaur, who motivated citizens of Jammu to contribute towards the initiative. The Zonal President AWWA graced the occasion as the Chief Guest.

A key highlight of the event was the presence of War Wounded Soldiers, whose inspiring stories of resilience, sacrifice and dedication to duty deeply motivated the audience. The event provided an opportunity for citizens of Jammu to interact with War Wounded Soldiers and listen to their firsthand accounts of courage, sacrifice, bravery and resilience.

Speaking on the occasion, Brig (Retd) Harcharan Singh informed the audience that citizens from various backgrounds have very proudly adopted families of Veer Naris from Jammu and Kashmir with the aim of providing them psychological support and guiding their children. He also highlighted that War Wounded Soldiers, Veer Naris and decorated soldiers are felicitated at public functions, while motivational talks are delivered by war veterans at schools to inculcate patriotism among the younger generation.

The contribution towards the donation of the 13 wheelchairs was made by Swatanter Aggarwal, Pradeep Jain, Naveen Jain, Ramnik Singh, Prof (Dr) Arti Bakshi, Jaininder Jain, Anoop Jain and Dr Ritesh Gupta.

The citizens also interacted with the War Wounded Soldiers and heard their motivating experiences.

Capt Mohd Sadiq, SC, Nk Romesh and Nk Tarsame Singh recalled that they had sustained grievous injuries during combat against the enemy, but continued to fight with determination until the enemy was eliminated. Their accounts of courage, commitment and indomitable spirit left a lasting impression on those present.

Adding a patriotic fervour to the occasion, Mrs Suresh Bala presented a patriotic song, which was warmly received by the gathering.

Thereafter, the citizens who donated wheelchairs, the War Wounded Soldiers and Mrs Suresh Bala were presented Appreciation Certificates by the Chief Guest in recognition of their contribution and inspiring service.

The Chief Guest appreciated the efforts of the brave people of Jammu in extending support to soldiers and their families, both during peace and war conditions. The efforts made by Brig (Retd) Harcharan Singh towards providing psychological support to the families of soldiers and War Wounded Soldiers were specially acknowledged and appreciated.

The function concluded with a Vote of Thanks by the Commandant, Military Hospital Satwari, who expressed gratitude to all citizens, contributors, War Wounded Soldiers, AWWA representatives and everyone associated with the initiative for their wholehearted participation and support.

The event reaffirmed the enduring spirit of Jammu’s citizens standing shoulder to shoulder with the Defence Forces, reflecting the values of compassion, sacrifice, resilience and a shared commitment towards the welfare and dignity of those who have served the nation.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Krishan Kumar