A soldiers' felicitation ceremony was held in Khatima in Uttarakhand's Udham Singh Nagar district, drawing participation from serving personnel, veterans, and local residents.

The event was attended by Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami, who paid tribute to soldiers who lost their lives in service to the country and acknowledged the contributions of their families.

The programme coincided with the sixth death anniversary of the Chief Minister's father, Subedar Sher Singh Dhami, and carried a personal significance for him. During the event, tributes were offered to fallen soldiers, and their family members were publicly recognized for their sacrifices. Attendees included members of the armed forces community as well as civilians from nearby areas, reflecting a broader public engagement with the occasion.

Speaking at the gathering, Dhami highlighted the role of soldiers in safeguarding national interests and maintaining security. He noted that the sacrifices made by defence personnel continue to resonate across generations and are remembered as part of the country's collective consciousness. At the same time, the event also served as a platform to emphasize the importance of support systems for serving and retired personnel.

As part of the programme, a soldiers' facilitation centre and a CSD (Canteen Stores Department) canteen were inaugurated. These facilities are expected to provide easier access to essential goods and services for soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their families in the region. The Chief Minister also marked the opening by making a purchase at the canteen, symbolically initiating its operations.

In his remarks, Dhami referred to his background as the son of a soldier, stating that it shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by military families. He added that policies and initiatives aimed at their welfare remain an ongoing focus for the state administration.

The ceremony concluded with participation from a large number of attendees, creating an atmosphere that combined remembrance with community interaction. While the event underscored the significance of honouring military service, it also reflected continuing discussions around improving facilities and support mechanisms for defence personnel and their dependents at the local level.