New Delhi, 14 May: The Central Government will set up Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras (PMJAK) in the border areas of the north-eastern state of Sikkim, which will be operated by ex-servicemen. In this connection, the Secretary of the Ex-Servicemen Welfare Department visited the areas bordering Sikkim on the China border and took stock of various welfare schemes related to ex-servicemen. This decision of the Central Government is being seen as further strengthening the health facilities of ex-servicemen.
Niten Chandra, Secretary, Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, visited the border areas of Sikkim on Monday as a part of ‘Samdhaan Abhiyaan’, the outreach program of the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare.
He inquired about various welfare schemes for ex-servicemen. He said that Rajya Sainik Board and District Sainik Boards have been instructed to set up Common Service Centers and Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras in the entire area. Dr. Niten Chandra said that the Pradhan Mantri Jan Aushadhi Kendras to be opened in the border areas of Sikkim will be operated by ex-servicemen.
He met Sikkim Chief Secretary VB Pathak in Gangtok to discuss the health roadmap for ex-servicemen. During the meeting it was discussed that with the help of the State Horticulture Department, cooperative groups of ex-servicemen would be encouraged to cultivate avocado, oranges, kiwi and fruits in the area.
Director General (Rehabilitation) Major General SBK Singh explained in detail about the various programs available for enhancing the skills and competencies of ex-servicemen and entrepreneurship models for their rehabilitation.
Secretary, Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare visited 17 Mount Division of the Indian Army and was welcomed by GOC Major General Amit Kabathiyal.
During this, the Secretary visited various defense establishments including ECHS Polyclinic, Sparsh Facilitation Center and Retired Servicemen Facilitation Center and took stock of the facilities available.
He interacted with the ex-servicemen and inquired about pension, health care and their rehabilitation among other issues. A large number of ex-servicemen from across the region participated in the Samadhan Abhiyan, where they were provided assistance on various issues related to them.
