Honouring her sacrifice: A heartfelt salute to silent pillars of courage
In a heartfelt tribute to the unwavering courage and immense sacrifices of India’s military families, 25 Veer Naris (war widows) were honoured during the Veer Nari Sammelan, organised by the Himachal Defence Women Welfare Association in Mandi district today. Held at the Sainik Welfare Department’s premises in Palace Mandi, the event marked a deeply emotional and historic moment—one that recognised the strength behind every soldier’s legacy.
Brigadier Madansheel Sharma, Director of the State Sainik Welfare Department, graced the occasion as the chief guest, accompanied by Lt Colonel Gopal Guleria, Deputy Director of the District Sainik Welfare Department, Mandi. A profoundly touching gesture came from Veer Nari Chinta Kumari of Darang, who dedicated a newly restored building to the memory of her husband, martyr Kishan Chand of the 13 Dogra Regiment, who laid down his life in the 1971 Indo-Pak war. Her act of love and remembrance will now serve to support fellow military families.
In his address, Brigadier Sharma praised the association for organising the first-ever state-level event dedicated to honouring Veer Naris. He commended the relentless efforts of the District Sainik Welfare Office in ensuring that every deserving widow receives rightful support and expressed hope that such acts of remembrance and respect continue to grow.
Lt Colonel Guleria reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Sainik Welfare Department to stand by Veer Naris, assuring them of continuous support in every possible way.
Asha Thakur, president of the association, shared the inspiring journey of the organisation. Founded on March 8, 2015, as the Veer Nari Association and formally registered as the Himachal Defence Women Welfare Association on June 6, 2018, it has worked tirelessly—despite limited resources—to support military widows and families. Through community support, it has gone beyond financial aid, offering mental, emotional, and administrative help to those who bear the heaviest cost of war.
From advocating land for the Kendriya Vidyalaya Mandi and army recruitment office, to assisting women facing domestic violence or psychological distress, the association has become a beacon of hope for many.
After the formal programme, a special lunch was hosted to honour the Veer Naris, marking the end of the event with warmth, gratitude and a deep sense of shared respect. This gathering was more than just a ceremony—it was a reminder of our collective responsibility to honour, support, and stand by the women whose silent strength guards the memory of our martyrs.
Himachal Tribune