An Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rally was organised at Kohima on March 17, 2026. The event was presided by the newly appointed Governor of Nagaland, among other dignitaries.
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An Ex-Servicemen (ESM) Rally was organised at Kohima on March 17, 2026. The event was presided by the newly appointed Governor of Nagaland, among other dignitaries. While the welfare of veterans is primarily the responsibility of the State Government, the Army often takes a leading role, especially in states affected by insurgency. This is due to its genuine concern for the well-being of veterans. In such regions, insurgents often exert influence because of prolonged ceasefire and unresolved issues, resulting in welfare issues for ESM being deprioritised.
It is important that rallies like this are not viewed merely as public relations events. Instead, they should focus on addressing the pressing issues faced by ex-servicemen. Actions taken in response to memorandums submitted by ESM organisations should be communicated transparently. Unlike other states, Nagaland has not reserved specific quotas for ESM employment within the State Government. Consequently, many ex-servicemen must rely solely on their modest pensions to survive. Other issues being inadequate, empanelled ECHS Hospitals and ESM entrepreneurs being subjected to extortion by the underground elements.
The Naga Regiment stands out as the only regiment in the Indian Army that was established because of a political settlement—the 10-Point Agreement—which led to the creation of Nagaland as a state. Many surrendered underground cadres from the Naga Army were absorbed into the regiment. Raised on November 1, 1970, the Naga Regiment has expanded to three regular battalions. The youngest battalion, 3 NAGA, has received the President’s Colours and was recently conferred the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Citation for meritorious services. Despite these achievements, it is ironic that the State Government appears to have forgotten the Naga ESM. Notably, the Chief Minister, who is the son of a decorated veteran who served in the Burma campaign and himself attended a Sainik School, was absent from the rally.
To make such events truly meaningful, it would be prudent to announce new schemes for ESM and address their long-standing demands. Taking these steps would not only fulfill the needs of veterans but also encourage Naga youth to join the Armed Forces in greater numbers and serve their country with pride and bring glory to Nagaland.
Col Prakash Bhatt (Retd)
Noida
(The views expressed by the author are his personal)