President Murmu, Defence Minister Singh salute Ex-Servicemen on Armed Forces Veterans’ Day

President Droupadi Murmu and Defence Minister Rajnath Singh paid tributes to the nation’s ex-servicemen on Armed Forces Veterans’ Day on Wednesday.

President Murmu, in a post on X, saluted the “valour, dedication, and sacrifice of our ex-servicemen,” stating their unwavering courage continues to inspire every Indian. She said such occasions are opportunities to both pay tribute and extend meaningful support to soldiers, expressing confidence that veterans remain deeply committed to the nation.

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, also on X, bowed in expressing “deep gratitude to our veterans and serving personnel,” acknowledging that their sacrifices form the living shield of India’s borders and preserve the soul of the Republic. He affirmed the nation’s eternal gratitude and an absolute, unwavering commitment to the dignity and welfare of veterans, serving personnel, and their families.

The Armed Forces Veterans’ Day is commemorated on January 14 every year to honour the legacy and yeoman service of Field Marshal KM Cariappa, OBE, the first Commander-in-Chief of the Indian Army, who retired on this day in 1953.