Poonch observes Armed Forces Flag Day with patriotic spirit

 DC leads solemn tributes to Valiant Soldiers

POONCH, DECEMBER 08: Deputy Commissioner Poonch, Ashok Kumar Sharma today led the district-level observance of Armed Forces Flag Day, commemorated nationwide since 1949 to honour the martyrs and the valiant men in uniform who have safeguarded the nation’s sovereignty and dignity. The day stands as a solemn reminder of the supreme sacrifices made by our soldiers, for which no tribute can be enough.

To mark the occasion, the Deputy Commissioner handed over Armed Forces Flag Day (AFFD) flags and contribution boxes to four specially constituted teams—each comprising two NCC Cadets, three NSS Volunteers, four Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and one official from the Zila Sainik Welfare Office.

These teams have been tasked with spreading awareness among the general public, shopkeepers and government offices across the district about the significance of the day and the importance of contributing voluntarily towards the welfare of war widows, disabled soldiers and their dependents.

Addressing the NCC Cadets, NSS Volunteers, Ex-Servicemen and officials present at the event, the Deputy Commissioner highlighted the noble spirit behind Armed Forces Flag Day and emphasised the responsibility of every citizen to acknowledge and support the families of those who laid down their lives for the nation. He urged the teams to conduct the awareness campaign with dedication, respect and sincerity.

The Zila Sainik Welfare Officer also briefed the teams about the historical importance of AFFD and the importance of public contribution in supporting the welfare programmes for the Armed Forces.

NO: PR/DDI/J/4305//

District Administration Reasi, Zila Sainik Welfare Board observe Armed Forces Flag Day

REASI, DECEMBER 8: The District Administration Reasi in collaboration with the Zila Sainik Welfare Board today observed Armed Forces Flag Day with solemnity and patriotic fervor.

The event was led by Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Malik and marked by the participation of officials from the Zila Sainik Welfare Board, NCC cadets and Ex-Servicemen from across the district.

Deputy Commissioner Nidhi Malik interacted with Ex-Servicemen, NCC cadets and officers of the Zila Sainik Board, expressing gratitude for their service and acknowledging their invaluable contributions to the nation. As part of the ceremony, a commemorative Armed Forces Flag Day badge was pinned on the Deputy Commissioner and Assistant Deputy Commissioner.

Paying tributes to the soldiers who laid their lives for the nation, the Deputy Commissioner said “Our collective gratitude must reflect the depth and magnitude of the sacrifices made by the Armed Forces. Our soldiers stand on the frontlines often in the harshest terrains and most hostile environments so that every citizen can live in peace and security. While symbolic gestures like the Armed Forces Flag Day carry immense emotional value, true respect must be shown through our actions. This includes consistent support for veterans, timely resolution of welfare matters and sustained recognition of the families of martyrs.”

She further remarked, “Both civil services and the Armed Forces serve the nation, but the lifelong bond shared within the forces especially with ex-servicemen and the families of martyrs is unique and deeply meaningful. Strengthening this bond is our shared responsibility and such observances help deepen the connection between the administration and the defence fraternity.”

Reaffirming her commitment to the cause, the Deputy Commissioner also contributed to the donation box set up by the Zila Sainik Board Reasi. Funds collected during the Flag Day campaign go toward the rehabilitation of battle casualties, welfare of serving personnel and their families and the resettlement and support of ex-servicemen and their dependents.