Pauri Garhwal

Uttarakhand Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced a significant increase in financial support for the families of martyred soldiers, raising the assistance from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 50 lakh. This announcement took place during the ‘Diwali Milan with Soldiers’ event at Lansdowne Cantonment in Pauri Garhwal on Thursday.

During the event, CM Dhami expressed his pride in celebrating Diwali with the soldiers, starting with the chants of Jai Badri Vishal and Bharat Mata ki Jai. He honored the memory of five soldiers from the Garhwal Rifles, who lost their lives in a terrorist ambush in Jammu’s Kathua region in July. Reflecting on his recent visit to pay respects, he emphasized that the earlier compensation was inadequate and announced the increase to better support the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

CM Dhami extended his heartfelt Diwali wishes, acknowledging that while many celebrate with family, soldiers serve away from home, ensuring the nation’s safety. He emphasized the symbolic significance of this Diwali, likening every soldier’s post to a sacred place. Coming from a military family, he highlighted the legacy of bravery, referencing Maha Vir Chakra recipient Jaswant Singh. He assured the soldiers and their families of the state’s steadfast support and commitment to honoring their courage.