The Vajra Corps of the Indian Army organized a significant Ex-Servicemen Rally and Weapon Display at Hoshiarpur, where Lieutenant General Ajay Chandpuria, AVSM, SM, General Officer Commanding (GOC) of Vajra Corps, engaged with National Cadet Corps (NCC) cadets and instructional staff from the Jalandhar Group.

The event, held under the aegis of the theme ‘Veeron Ka Samman, Desh Ka Abhiman,’ reaffirmed the Army’s commitment to its veterans while inspiring the youth to contribute to nation-building.

Lt Gen Chandpuria, who took command of Vajra Corps in July 2024, lauded the NCC cadets for their unwavering dedication to welfare initiatives, awareness drives, and their transformative anti-drug campaign.

Addressing the cadets, he emphasized the importance of embodying discipline, values, and ethos, urging them to lead from the front in shaping a stronger, drug-free India. “NCC cadets are the vanguards of discipline and nation-building,” he remarked, inspiring them to forge a path as future leaders of the nation.

The event saw the participation of over 2,000 ex-servicemen and their families from Hoshiarpur and nearby districts, alongside NCC cadets dressed in their khaki uniforms adorned with green berets and red sashes.

The rally featured a weapon display, showcasing the Army’s capabilities, and provided a platform for interaction between veterans, serving personnel, and the youth. Photographs from the event captured Lt Gen Chandpuria shaking hands with cadets, presenting awards, and engaging in heartfelt conversations, reflecting the Army’s commitment to both its past and future.

Vajra Corps, also known as XI Corps, is headquartered in Jalandhar and operates under the Western Command of the Indian Army. Established in 1950 to oversee formations in Punjab, the Corps draws its name and emblem—a thunderbolt weapon of Lord Indra—from the mythological symbol of sacrifice, representing the sage Dadhichi’s selfless act.

The NCC, founded in 1948, continues to play a pivotal role in developing character, comradeship, and a secular outlook among the youth, with its cadets pledging to uphold India’s unity.

The rally not only honored the sacrifices of ex-servicemen but also highlighted the role of the NCC in fostering discipline and leadership, aligning with the broader mission of strengthening the nation.

The event concluded with a group photograph of Lt Gen Chandpuria, NCC cadets, and staff, symbolizing the unity and shared purpose of the Indian Army and its future torchbearers.