Punjab Minister Mohinder Bhagat reaffirms commitment to ex-servicemen welfare

Punjab’s Freedom Fighter and Defence Services Welfare Minister, Mohinder Bhagat, reaffirmed on Tuesday that the welfare of freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, widows, and their dependents remains a top priority for the state government.

During a visit to the Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum and the Defence Services Welfare Office, accompanied by Ludhiana North MLA Madan Lal Bagga, Bhagat engaged with ex-servicemen and their families, assuring them of the government's commitment to addressing their concerns.

He emphasized the nation's deep gratitude for the sacrifices made by these brave individuals in securing India's independence.

Bhagat highlighted that 13% of vacancies in Group A, B, C, and D posts in Punjab have been reserved for ex-servicemen. He instructed officials to ensure that freedom fighters, ex-servicemen, and widows receive the necessary attention and support whenever they approach government offices with their concerns.

Stressing the importance of efficient and transparent services, Bhagat urged officials to resolve all issues promptly. He also underscored the need to promote awareness about the Maharaja Ranjit Singh War Museum, describing it as a valuable resource for learning about the contributions of martyrs and key battles fought after Independence.

During the visit, the minister honored the parents of Agniveer Ajay Kumar, who served in the 17 Sikh Li and lost his life in a landmine explosion at the Kalal Sector in Jammu and Kashmir on January 18, 2024, during operational duty under Operation Rakshak. He acknowledged that Punjab Chief Minister Bhagwant Mann had previously extended financial assistance of Rs 1 crore to Ajay Kumar's family.

In addition, Bhagat presented a cheque of Rs 1 lakh from the Flag Day Fund to Sukhveer Kaur, widow of Naik Ranjit Singh, who served in the 112 Engineer Regiment and passed away while on duty on November 10, 2024. Further financial aid was provided to 12 non-pensioner ex-servicemen and widows, each receiving Rs 5,000 from the Flag Day Fund.

Earlier in the day, the minister was given a guard of honor by the district administration during his first official visit to Ludhiana after assuming office. He took a salute from the Punjab Police guard of honor and laid a wreath at the memorial. Deputy Commissioner Jitendra Jorwal welcomed him to the museum, where he also held discussions with officials to review ongoing welfare schemes.

The event was attended by Director of Defence Services Welfare Brigadier Bhupinder Singh Dhillon (Retd), District Defence Services Welfare Officer Group Captain Davinder Singh Dhillon (Retd), and other dignitaries.