JAMMU: Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi on Saturday assessed the operational readiness of the Northern Command based in Udhampur, which oversees units across Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and other regions.
During his visit, General Dwivedi chaired high-level discussions focused on boosting integrated capabilities. Senior officers from the Army, Indian Air Force, Navy, and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP) participated in these deliberations, according to the Additional Directorate General of Public Information (ADGPI) of the Indian Army on X.
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Officials told The New Indian that the Army Chief began his tour at the Command Headquarters in Udhampur before proceeding to Ladakh, where he presided over another key meeting.
General Dwivedi also reviewed cutting-edge weaponry, modern equipment, and logistical assets recently incorporated into the Northern Command’s arsenal. Praising the personnel for their dedication and professionalism, he acknowledged the Command’s efforts in achieving operational synergy and innovation.
As part of his visit, General Dwivedi presented the prestigious ‘Veterans Achievers Award’ to three retired servicemen: Brigadier (Retd) Harcharan Singh, Havildar (Retd) Khajur Singh, and Naik (Retd) Mohammed Aslam Bhat.
Brigadier (Retd) Harcharan Singh has devoted his retirement to enhancing the lives of veterans. His contributions include organizing veteran records under the Sainik Welfare Board, ensuring benefits reach eligible individuals, and supporting Veer-Naris and their families through ‘Project NAMAN.’ His work also extends to providing free legal aid and assisting injured soldiers via the NGO War Wounded Foundation.
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Havildar (Retd) Khajur Singh was recognized for his commitment to environmental conservation and women empowerment. He founded the Sanjeevani Jan Kalyan Seva Samiti in 2016, an organization that has planted over 100,000 trees in Jammu and Kashmir. His initiative also promotes self-defense training for young girls, fostering community development.
Naik (Retd) Mohammed Aslam Bhat has pioneered Kiwi farming in the Chenani tehsil of Jammu and Kashmir. He transformed barren land into productive orchards, introduced innovative agricultural practices, and mentored fellow veterans, helping them transition to agriculture and generate sustainable income.
