DH NEWS SERVICE
jammu, july 13
On July 13, 2025, a grand felicitation ceremony was organized by the Bhootpurva Sainik Vikas Samiti (Ex-Servicemen Development Committee) at Shoorveer Nivas located in the Gadigarh area of Jammu city. The ceremony was held in honor of the valiant officer of the Indian Army, Colonel R.K. Sharma (Kirti Chakra, Shaurya Chakra, Sena Medal), who displayed extraordinary bravery, discipline, and dedication during his military service.
The event was coordinated by Colonel Dev Anand Lohamaror, National President of the Bhootpurva Sainik Vikas Samiti, while the chief guest of the event was none other than Colonel R.K. Sharma himself. Distinguished guests included Smt. Shashi Sharma (wife of Colonel Sharma), former MLA Shri Ashwani Sharma, and former Mayor Shri Rajendra Sharma. A large number of ex-servicemen, local citizens, social workers, and youth participated in the program.
The ceremony commenced with a warm welcome and felicitation of Colonel R.K. Sharma. This was followed by the launch of a book titled “Shoorveer”, based on the military journey and tales of valor of Colonel Sharma. The book was also distributed among local citizens. A special and emotional moment in the event arrived when Colonel Sharma’s wife, Smt. Shashi Sharma, was invited on stage and honored with the Veerangana Samman (Gallant Woman Award). The audience was deeply moved by this gesture.
Smt. Shashi Sharma was honored for her years of sacrifice, patience, and the silent yet crucial role she played in her husband’s military life.
In his address, Colonel Dev Anand Lohamaror stated, “When a soldier displays courage on the border, it is backed by the sacrifice and support of his wife. When the nation salutes the soldier, it must not forget that a Veerangana has also surrendered everything behind the scenes.” He strongly emphasized that even after 75 years of independence, the country still lacks guaranteed government jobs or permanent financial support policies for Veeranganas, which is a matter of deep concern.
He highlighted that the Rajasthan Government passed a law in 2022 to offer government jobs to Veeranganas, and now there is an urgent need for the Jammu & Kashmir Government, the Government of India, and other state governments to enact similar laws. He said, “This is not just a policy matter but a national duty to honor women who sacrifice their marital lives for the country.”
Several public representatives and citizens also shared their views during the event. Prominent speakers included Sarpanch Shri Shamsher Singh, former MLA Kulwant Singh Bhatti, former MLA Ashwani Sharma, former Mayor Rajendra Sharma, Dr. Mohit Sharma, Dr. Nav Balram, ADC Shri Tilak Shastri, Colonel Kirtan Singh, Colonel Ravindra Sharma, and Shri Gurudev Singh, among others.
All speakers unanimously agreed that justice and legal rights for Veeranganas can no longer be delayed. The call raised by Colonel Dev Anand Lohamaror truly reflects the sentiments of every soldier’s family.
The event concluded with the National Anthem, where all attendees pledged to honor the brave sons and daughters of the nation.
