DH NEWS SERVICE
akhnoor, Nov 9
The Indian Army continues to uphold its long-standing commitment to the welfare and empowerment of veterans, Veer Naris and their families through sustained outreach and welfare initiatives. In one such effort, the Army organized a comprehensive awareness programme on November 9, 2025, at Village Maira in Akhnoor. The focus of the event was to educate ex-servicemen, Veer Naris and widows about the benefits of the Defence Salary Package (DSP) Account, a financial scheme designed to support soldiers and their families by offering a range of banking privileges, welfare-linked services and exclusive benefits. The programme was conducted in collaboration with the Punjab National Bank (PNB), Khour Branch, whose representative delivered a detailed presentation on the various features of the scheme and how beneficiaries could best utilize it. The session saw the participation of two Veer Naris and twenty ex-servicemen from the surrounding villages. The primary objective of the programme was to promote financial literacy and make the attendees aware of the tools available to ensure their financial stability and long-term well-being. The DSP Account, introduced by major nationalized banks in coordination with the Ministry of Defence, provides tailored financial services to serving soldiers, veterans and their dependents. It includes benefits such as zero balance accounts, preferential loan schemes, free insurance cover, and special provisions for overdraft facilities. The programme helped attendees understand how to effectively manage their finances through such accounts and plan for future needs like education, health care and housing.
The lecture delivered by the PNB representative was interactive and informative. It covered practical aspects of managing savings, availing loans, and understanding interest benefits under various schemes associated with the DSP Account. The speaker also highlighted the importance of maintaining regular contact with the bank to stay updated on new welfare initiatives and to ensure seamless access to benefits. Many participants were unaware of certain advantages offered by the DSP scheme prior to the session, and they expressed appreciation for the Army’s efforts in organizing such an educational outreach programme at the village level.
In addition to the financial education segment, the event served as an emotional and social engagement platform. The participants, many of whom have dedicated decades of their lives in service to the nation, shared their experiences and challenges in adjusting to civilian life after retirement. The Army personnel present at the event listened attentively and reassured them of continued institutional support through welfare programmes and veteran outreach activities. This gesture reinforced the enduring bond between the Army and its extended family of veterans and war widows.
The session concluded with an informal interaction over tea and snacks, creating a warm and friendly environment for participants to discuss individual concerns with both Army representatives and bank officials. The attendees expressed gratitude for the initiative, noting that such programmes not only provide valuable information but also strengthen the sense of community among ex-servicemen. The organizers assured the participants that similar programmes would be conducted regularly to ensure that every veteran and dependent remains informed about the financial benefits available to them.
The event at Maira once again underscored the Indian Army’s commitment to the holistic welfare of its veterans and their families. Beyond its primary duty of safeguarding the nation, the Army continues to extend its role as a pillar of social and economic support. By promoting financial awareness, the Army empowers ex-servicemen and Veer Naris to lead dignified and independent lives, ensuring that their years of service to the country are honored with continued care and respect. The success of this awareness programme at Akhnoor reflects the Army’s unwavering resolve to stand by those who once stood in defense of the nation, ensuring their security, dignity and well-being long after their active service has ended.
