Nagaland Governor Nand Kishore Yadav on August 31 in Kohima urged stronger, responsive and compassionate welfare mechanisms for ex-servicemen, war widows and their families, saying the nation’s duty to its soldiers must continue beyond active service. Speaking at the 24th Annual General Meeting of the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) at Lok Bhavan, he described the gathering as more than a review of schemes — a reaffirmation of the country’s commitment to honour and support those who served.
“The security of a nation is measured not only by the strength of its borders, but also by how it honours those who defend them,” Yadav said, stressing the symbolic and practical importance of sustained care for veterans. As president of the RSB, he highlighted the board’s role as a vital link between the armed forces, government and the veteran community.
Yadav said the RSB must facilitate welfare measures, redress grievances and ensure timely support to ex-servicemen and their families. He noted that soldiers often operate in difficult conditions, separated from their families while protecting the nation’s sovereignty and security.
Rejecting the view of veterans as mere welfare recipients, the Governor urged policymakers and communities to treat ex-servicemen as a national resource whose discipline, leadership and resilience can benefit society after retirement. He called for enhanced focus on healthcare, education, employment and financial assistance tailored to veterans’ needs.
The Governor also emphasised the need for stronger coordination among the Rajya Sainik Board, Zila Sainik Boards, district administrations, government departments, military authorities and ex-servicemen associations to deliver effective support on the ground. Highlighting the sacrifices of Veer Naris and Veer Matas — honorifics for war widows and mothers of fallen soldiers — he said their lifelong emotional and personal costs must be recognised through sustained care.
Nagaland Chief Minister Neiphiu Rio underlined that national security and defence are central to development and public welfare, and added that the morale and commitment of defence personnel are as important as modern equipment and technology, reaffirming the need to safeguard the welfare and well‑being of those who serve.
Original Source: https://www.indiatodayne.in/nagaland/story/nagaland-governor-calls-for-stronger-welfare-support-for-ex-servicemen-war-widows-and-families-1445126-2026-08-31?utm_source=rssfeed
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Publish Date: 2026-08-31 22:33:00
