The Kodagu District Paramilitary Soldiers’ Union has expressed concern over the continued neglect of retired paramilitary personnel who have served the nation and have since returned to their native places.
Speaking at the 14th Annual General Meeting of the Union, held at the Kodava Samaja Auditorium in Madikeri, Union District President M.G. Yatish urged the administration to take appropriate measures to provide retired paramilitary personnel with essential facilities, including the allotment of land.
He said it was unfortunate that personnel who had dedicated their lives to serving the country continued to face hardships due to the non-allotment of land to which they were entitled. He appealed to the Government to sanction the land without unnecessary delay or procedural hurdles.
Yatish also briefed the gathering on the healthcare services and various welfare benefits made available to retired paramilitary personnel by the Central Government.
He noted that Kodagu district has more than 4,000 serving and retired paramilitary personnel. Although the Union was established 13 years ago, only 850 personnel have enrolled as members. He appealed to all eligible personnel to become members of the Union and strengthen the organisation. Union Vice President Puliyanda M. Chengappa, office-bearers G.K. Dinesh Kumar and Noorera M. Bheemaiah also addressed the gathering and highlighted the issues and challenges faced by retired paramilitary personnel.
During the meeting, retired senior personnel B.D. Gopala, M.A. Poonacha, C.J. Bopaiah, P.M. Poovaiah, and M.K. Appaiah were felicitated in recognition of their service.
On the occasion, former paramilitary personnel Mervin Correa donated a computer worth Rs 60,000 to the Union. Harish Kumar Gowda was elected unopposed as the new Vice President of the Union.
Among those present were Puttegowda, Manohar, Lokesh, Thimmaiah, Harish Kumar Gowda, Nalini, Gopalakrishna, Ashok, Cariappa, P.M. Lokesh, Kudupaje Chandresh, and several others.
Union Director B.N. Rajashekar welcomed the gathering, while Vice President Puliyanda M. Chengappa delivered the introductory address. Secretary B.M. Ravindra presented the audit report. Thangamma conducted the proceedings, and Director S.S. Leelaveni proposed the vote of thanks. The meeting also paid tribute to deceased members of the Union by observing condolences.
