MEETING WITH EX- SERVICEMEN WELFARE ON - 30/05/2022

A meeting under the Chairmanship of the Secretary DESW, Mr. B Anand was organized in the conference hall of War Widow Association at Shaheed Bhawan on 30th May 2022 in the morning at 9 am. The team from Ex – Servicemen Welfare was comprised of Dr. Pudi Hari Prasad, Joint Secretary/ESW/MOD followed by Mr. Sarvjit Singh, Deputy Secretary, Mr. Ajay Kumar Aggarwal, DS, DESW, Capt. Satish Kumar, Division (KSB), Mr. Alok Nigam, Under Secretary (PG), MOD, DESW, AVM SK Gagneja, Vice President AFA, Group Captain Kamlesh Singh, DAV, Air Force, Brig Kartar Singh, President, ESL, Col Jagdev Singh Yadav, SM (V) and General Secretary ESL. The members of the War Widow Association who attended the meeting were Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri, Chairperson WWA, Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA, Mrs. Shalini Kathpalia, General Secreatry WWA, Mrs. Raj Sharma, Vice Pesident WWA, Mrs. Anjali Karkare, Mrs. Geeta Dod, Vice Pesident WWA, Mrs. Jasjeevan Kaur, Mrs. Mohinder Bakshi, Mrs. Anuradha Deo Phadnis,, Cdr. (Retd) R W Pathak, Advisor WWA, Mrs. Meera Khanna, Advisor WWA and Veer Naries of Kargil War.

The focus of the meeting was to discuss anomalies related to pension and other grievances of war widows’ especially in re-marriage cases of Mrs. Anuradha Deo Phadnis, Mrs. Geeta Dod, Mrs. Jasjeevan Kaur and Mrs. Raj Sharma were few of the above mentioned cases. The Veer Naries of Kargil war represented by Mrs. Devyanti Devi had some queries regarding railway Id cards. Mrs. Anjali Karkare had the requirement of an Id card to be issued to avail travel concessions that are permissible for defense people. All the queries and issued raised by the WWA representatives were attended by the members of Ex-Servicemen welfare. The interaction was fruitful and adequate guidance was given for the further actions to be taken in certain cases. Both the teams had a sumptuous lunch together.

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VISIT TO GROUP CAPTAIN TIWARI AND Ms. SHIKHA JAIN ON 10/08/2022

Visit by Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi and Mrs. Shekhawat to Group Captain & Mrs. Tiwari and family to pay respect to Late Squadron Leader Shishir Tewari ,their son and gratitude to the family 10th August 2022. They also visited Ms. Shikha Jain to pay tribute to late Major Rohit Kumar who was martyred on 21st September 2021 during Operation Rakshak and gratitude to the wife and the parents.

 

ADVOCACY TO ADDRESS GAPS AND CHALLENGES OF VEER PARIWARS ON 30/09/2022

Advocacy to address gaps and challenges of veer pariwars Chaired by Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri , Chairperson WWA on 29th & 30th September 2022. The presentation was made by Mrs. Meghna Girish of ‘Major Akshay Girish Memorial Trust’ in collaboration with War Widows Association New Delhi. Families from across the country attended this programme. All the women participants were presented a salwar suit and Rs. 1000/- by WWA. Later all the guests were taken out for the sightseeing by the trust.

 

TRIBUTE TO MARTYR FLIGHT LT SUMIT MOHANTY 06/11/2022

President WWA and Veer Parivars of WWA paying tribute to the Flight Lieutenant Sumit Mohanty at the Air Force auditorium at New Delhi on 6th November 2022.

 

REZANGLA - 18/11/22

The Veer Naries from the War Widows Association participated in the Rezangla Shourya Divas Samaroh at Rezangla Yudha Smarak, on 18th November 2022. This programme was organized to mark the 60th Anniversary of the Rezangla Battle in the 1962 Indo China war where homage was paid to the soldiers of the Ahir community of Kumaon battalion.

The ladies who represented Veer Naries Sangathan from WWA were General Secretary Mrs Anjali Karkare, Joint Secretary Mrs. Neelam Devi, Vice President Mrs. Devyanti Devi and the Admin Officer Mrs. Prema Kala. At Rezangla they were received by Shri Rao Sanjay Singh and the Secretary of Shourya Samiti Shri Rao Naresh Chauhan.

Many speeches were delivered by various people honouring the soldiers of Rezangla battle. The main theme was Beti Bachao Beti Padhao. The financial help of Rs. 5000/- was given to the daughters of 1962 soldiers of battle of Rezangla by Rezangla Shourya Samiti for their education.

Last year during the Rezangla Shourya Divas WWA presented cheques of Rs 10,000/- each to 77 Veer Naries.

 

VISIT TO VEER NARI MRS. SARIKA GULATI ON 23/12/2022

A visit to a Veer Nari Mrs. Sarika Gulati and her family by the President WWA Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare and the Administrative officer Mrs. Prema Kala on 23rd December 2022.

 

ARMED VETERNS DAY ON 14/01/2023

Attending ‘7th ARMED FORCES VETERANS DAY ‘on 14th January 2023 with a team from WWA in Manekshaw Building New Delhi.

 

HONOUR OF VEER NARIS AT FARIDABAD ON 24/01/2023

Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay President WWA was invited to join wife Mrs. Radha Sharma, his parents and peers at Faridabad, Haryana where tribute was paid to Lt Col Rishubh Sharma, Aviator and other similar families on 24th January 2023. On that occasion Veer Nari Mrs. Parvesh Ghai was also honoured for the bravery and sacrifice of her husband Lt. Col V P Ghai, MVC.

 

MARTYRS MEMORIAL LECTURE- 30/1/23

To mark the occasion of the Martyrs Day on 30th January 2023 a lecture on the topic ‘PLAYING FRIEND NOT GOD: CENTRALITY OF PEOPLE IN ADDRESSING CONFLICT SUSTAINABLY’ was organized at the C.D. Deshmukh Auditorium, India International Centre, Delhi at 11 AM. The keynote speaker for the occasion was Lt Gen Syed Ata Husnain, PVSM, VYSM, AVSM, SM, VSM** (Retd.)

Along with our honourable Chairperson Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri, the other prominent guests for the day were Lt Gen Shankar Prasad, PVSM, VSM and Patron, WWA, Lt Gen V. G. Khandare, Patron WWA, Dr. Ramakanth Dwivedi, Advisor WWA, Air Marshal Ananth Raman representing Chief of Air Staff, Captain A K Sharma representing chief of Naval staff, veterans Lt Gen and Mrs. Chaturvedi, Senior Professor JNU Mrs. Nirmala Joshi and all the Veer Naries.

As a mark of respect to all those who laid their lives to safeguard the nation, the programme started with the wreath laying by the Chief Guest Lt Gen & Mrs. Syed Ata Husnain followed by all the other distinguished guests. At the onset Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA welcomed all the guests and briefed about the contribution made by the Chairperson WWA, Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri towards WWA in the past 50 years. Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri talked about the vision and mission of WWA and thanked all Veer Naries to be a part of WWA. Mrs. Anjali Karkare took over to the day’s proceedings and invited the Chairperson WWA, President WWA, all the speakers to be seated on the dias. Both the speakers expressed their views on the topic selected for lecture with great enthusiasm and zeal and quoted examples from their real life to motivate the Veer Naries. They thanked the Chairperson WWA to provide them an opportunity to interact with the members of WWA team.

Mrs. Anjali Karkare, General Secretary WWA gave vote of thanks and invited all to join for the lunch. She especially thanked the official staff of WWA for making this event a great success.

 

TRIBUTE TO LATE MAJOR SUKHWINDER JEET SINGH RANDHAWA KC, SM ON 27/2/2023

Lt .Col Ravinder Randhawa Paying tribute to her husband late Major Sukhwinder Jeet Singh Randhawa KC, SM on 27/2/2023 with the President WWA at War Memorial, New Delhi.

 

INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY - 8/3/23

Dr. Mrs. V. Mohini Giri welcomed warmly Lt Gen Chaturvedi (Retd), Mrs. Sushma Seth, Mrs. Lalitha Anantharaman, Vice - President AFWWA, Mr. V N Kaila and Mrs. Sunita Kaila, Dr. Sumana Arora, Senior Consultant, Niti Aayog, members of WWA and all other distinguished guests.
Under the flagship of the honourable Chairperson Dr. Mrs. V. Mohini Giri War Widows Association, Guild of Service together with Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Smriti celebrated International Women’s on 8th March 2023 in the Kirti Mandap hall of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti premises at 5, Tees January Marg , New Delhi.

The programme started at 10.30 am with the wreath laying ceremony to pay tribute to the father of the nation Mahatma Gandhi and all brave soldiers who laid down their life for the Nation. The wreath laying was done by Mrs. Sushma Seth, Mrs. Lalitha Anantharaman Vice President AFWWA, Mrs. Sunita Kaila, Lt. Gen. Chaturvedi (Retd.), along with all the veer naries from Kargil apartments, Dwarka.

Dr. Mrs. V. Mohini Giri welcomed warmly Lt Gen Chaturvedi (Retd), Mrs. Sushma Seth, Mrs. Lalitha Anantharaman, Vice - President AFWWA, Mr. V N Kaila and Mrs. Sunita Kaila, Dr. Suman Arora from Niti Aayog, members of WWA and all other distinguished guests.

The cultural programme started with the prayer ‘Hum ko Man ki Shakti Dena’ sung by the school children from Najaf Garh school. Then Mrs. Geeta Chandra in her exceedingly melodious voice sung the same peace song which was sung at UN General Assembly by the famous singer Mrs. Subhalaxmi . The message of the UN Secretary General Antonio Gutteres was read out. The Hindu prayer was chanted by Kumud Dewan .This was followed by Verses from the Holy Quran rendered by Dr. Sayeeda Hameed followed by the Shabads from Guru Granth Sahib Ji sung by Bibi Arvinder Kaur and party who also sang a stanza in Basant Raag in her most melodious voice. A Buddhist prayer was chanted by Karmapa International Buddhist Society, Delhi. There was also a Christian prayer by a young lady. There was an Inter faith prayer rendered by Renee Singh. Mrs. Rajshri recited the poem

In the end the Gen Secretary of WWA Mrs Anjali Karkare thanked all the performers by name, ladies from Kargil apartments and conveyed special thanks to Shri Vijay Goel, MP and Vice Chairman of Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti Mr. Shri Rajdeep Pathak who along with other staff members of the Gandhi Smriti premises contributed and gave full assistance to made this event a success and without whose help and cooperation it would not have been possible. Tea and snacks were served by WWA to all present there.

 

PAYING HOMAGE ON BALIDAAN DIVAS ON 25/03/2023

President WWA Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay paying homage to Lt. Kiran Shekhawat on her 8th Balidaan Divas on 25th March 2023 at Varunika Naval Auditorium at Chanakya Puri, New Delhi. Naik Deepchand fought in Kargil. Later in a blast he lost both his legs and one arm. Yet do not miss the smile on his face. This is a true picture of an Indian Soldier.

 

INAUGURATION OF HOMEOPATHY CLINIC ON 7/4/2023

The premises of War Widow Association in Shaheed Bhawan was beautifully decorated with flowers and colourful rangoli on 7th April 2023 for the inauguration of Homeopathy clinic.

The main Guests were the Chairperson, WWA, Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri , WWA advisor Gen V G Khandare and Mrs. Meera Khanna, Gen R K Raina, Group Captain Tewari, Veer Naries and many members of the Guild for Service. The General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare welcomed all the honourable guests, the Chairperson, WWA, Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri, WWA advisor Lt Gen V G Khandare and all present on this occasion.

The Homeopathic clinic was inaugurated by Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri together with Gen Khandare at 11.30 A.M. At the onset a prayer was sung by the children who used to attend the English classes in WWA. After that the Administrative Officer Mrs. Prema Kala sung a melodious bhajan devoted to Lord Ganesha. Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri addressed the audience and thanked them to be a part of the initiative taken by War Widow Association to provide free Homeopathic treatment to all the Veer Naries and their dependants. She announced that the Homeopathic treatment is also free for underprivileged class of the society.

Gen V G Khandare in his speech appreciated the noble work and efforts done by WWA for humanity. The President WWA Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay threw light on the vision of WWA about the purpose of opening this Homeopathic clinic. Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi talked regarding the advantages of replacing allopathic medicines with Homeopathic medicines and why more and more people are now accepting this medical treatment in todays scenario. She also answered certain queries of the audience and cleared their doubts. Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi apprised everyone about the timings and day of opening of the Homeopathy clinic in WWA i.e. every Friday from 11 am to 1.00 pm. Now it is open from Monday to Friday 11 am to 1.00 pm.

In the end the General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare gave vote of thanks requested all to join for tea and refreshments.

 

YOGA SESSION - 21/4/23

On 21st April 2023 a Yoga session was held in the inner hall of WWA premises at 11A.M. It was attended by the President WWA, Mrs. Damayanti V.Tambay, General Secretary WWA, Mrs. Anjali Karkare, Treasurer Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi , Administrative officer WWA, Mrs. Prema Kala, Mrs. Pammi Bhardwaj and Mrs. Kamlesh Jain member of WWA.

Mr. Ajay Kumar Shastri well known Yoga expert from JNU made everyone do yoga under his supervision and guidance. Mr. Ajay Kumar Shastri well known Yoga expert from JNU made everyone do yoga under his supervision and guidance. Everyone brought their personal yoga mats and enthusiastically performed yoga for one hour and 45 minutes. He gave a live demonstration and involved all of the staff members and those present to do various mudras and asanas. He also answered a few queries from various members amongst those present regarding some common problems like pain in the back, neck pain, arthritis, etc. He also gave a few remedies of some common problems like weak bones due to lack of calcium etc. He mentioned names like ‘Kachnar’ gugal Ayurvedic remedy for blood clotting inside the body, Asthi Paushtakvati for weak bones manufactured by Dhoot Papeshwar co. He stressed the importance of introduction of some organic seeds like Flax seeds or Alsi to be consumed every day to clear the system and removal of fat globules in the blood stream. The Session ended with a total relaxation mode with Shav asana. After the yoga session everyone was totally relaxed and refreshed. After the session tea and biscuits were served. A small token of gratitude was given to Mr. Ajay Kumar Shastri as a mark of appreciation and respect.

FELICITATION OF VEER NARIES -9/5/23

Mr. Giridhar Gopal Gulati, Chairman and Managing Director of the United Group of Institutions honoured the Veer Naries on the occasion of their Founder’s Day celebration in the college auditorium at the Knowledge Park III, Greater Noida. The chief guest Maj Gen Prem Gulati, a highly decorated Army veteran who spoke about his experiences in the Army and the role of students in nation building in today's scenario.

From the team of WWA the function was attended by Mrs. Damayanti Tambay , President WWA, Mrs. Devayanti Devi, Vice President WWA, Mrs. Anjali Karkare, General Secretary WWA, Mrs. Neelam Devi, Joint Secretary, Mrs. Poonam Katoch, Administrative officer WWA, and other members Mrs Shammi Malhotra, Mrs. Parvesh Ghai and Mrs. Kamlesh Jain, Mrs. Sarika Gulati, Mrs. Radha Sharma, Mrs. Devayanti Devi, Mrs. Ganga Negi, Mrs. Beena Devi, and Mrs. Jayanti Devi attended the function and were honoured on the stage by the host and the chief guest by way of a shawl , plaque and a cheque of Rs. 15000 each.

The students and faculty members of many schools and inter colleges were also honored by the Chairman, the chief guest and other guests of honour. A guest speaker Mr. Lokesh Nathani, who gave motivational talk especially for students giving them various tips on how to give their best even in times of stress etc. and spoke about career counseling etc.

After the felicitation was over there was a nice spread of the lunch in a huge hall on the ground floor. All the guests were looked after well by the staff and students of the institution throughout the function. It was certainly a well-organized and grand function.

 

CGDA CAMP ORGANIZED at WWA - 27/5/23

The senior officials from CGDA Head Quarters were invited by Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA on Wednesday, 17th May 2023 in the premises of WWA, Shaheed Bhawan, New Delhi at 2 pm to share their expertise and have one to one interaction with the representatives from the War Widow Association. Dr. Bhartendu Singh, Joint Controller CGDA deputed the three senior officials Mr. Rajesh Kumar Gupta, SAO, Mr. Santosh Panjiyar, AAO and Mr. R S Mishra, AO to conduct this meeting.

To intimate all the members by sending a detailed circular on the EC Forum and Kargil Awas Forum about the meeting organized with the senior officials from CGDA. All the participants were requested to bring their original papers such as PPO, bank account book etc as needed for the discussion.The following members from WWA attended the meeting:

• Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA
• Mrs. Raj Sharma, Vice President WWA
• Mrs. Devyanti Devi, Vice President WWA
• Mrs. Anjali Karkare, General Secretary WWA
• Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi, Treasurer WWA
• Mrs. Kamlesh Jain, Member WWA
• Mrs. Poonam Katoch, Administrative Officer
• Mrs. Ganga Devi, Member WWA
• Mrs. Beena Devi. Member WWA
• Mr. Jagat Singh Saini, Office in charge

They were received and welcomed by the President WWA and all the other representatives from WWA. Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi , treasurer WWA took the initiative to introduce the team from CGDA to the respective members of WWA.

The team from CGDA was well versed with all the procedures followed at CGDA for disbursal of pension etc. They updated all the participants about the likely problem areas regarding pension, arrears due to them from time to time, gave clarity on how to calculate the actual pension as on date as per the slab of years of service put in by their husbands in respect to their last rank. The CGDA team very efficiently answered all their queries and could resolve all the pension related issues of war widows individually.

On the request of Mrs. Anjali Karkare, General Secretary WWA, they provided an insight on OROP and SPARSH too. Mr. Rajesh Kumar Gupta, Senior Accounts Officer gave the Demo about opening and handling the SPARSH portal. He made everyone understand the significance of this portal and how one can update their mobile numbers and change in address etc.

On behalf of all the members of WWA President Mrs. Damayanti V. Tambay expressed her gratitude and appreciated the efforts of CGDA officials. Furthermore she conveyed her special thanks to Mr. Bhartendu Singh through his team. In the end Mrs. Anjali Karkare, General Secretary WWA, gave vote of thanks. In her speech she individually praised each and every member of CGDA team for their updates and fruitful discussion. She also thanked Mrs. Damayanti V. Tambay for taking the initiative to invite senior officials from CGDA and organize an open house discussion at such a forum. The whole event was well organized by the administrative staff of WWA and went off smoothly.

 

YOGA SESSION - 19/6/23

To keep up the spirit of yoga and to celebrate the ‘The International Yoga Day’ a yoga session was oraganized in the premises of War Widow Association, Shahed Bhawan with Mr. Ajay Kumar Shastri, a renowned yoga teacher from Jawahar lal Nehru University, New Delhi. He has been training students in yoga for more than twenty years in JNU.

The Veer Naries along with the staff of WWA was invited to participate in the specially organized yoga session. The two hours yoga session started at 11.00 am. It was a sight to see the happiness and enthusiasm with the President WWA, Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, General Secretary, Mrs. Anjali Karkare, Administrative officer, Mrs. Poonam Katoch and all the office staff participated in this yoga session. Mr. Shastri himself demonstrated all the asanas and made everyone do the same starting from easy ones and then graduating onto the difficult ones. Side by side he did explain their benefits in details and the diseases they cure. He also threw light on the simple home remedies in curing the common diseases and the food we should avoid or eat in order to keep ourselves fit.

Overall it was a beneficial and fruitful session. Everyone enjoyed and actively participated in this session wholeheartedly. In the end there was a question and answer round where he answered the queries of the participants. They all looked active and physically fit after the enriching session of yoga.

INTERNATIONAL WIDOW'S DAY - 23/6/23

The Guild for Service under the guidance of Dr. Mrs. V. Mohini Giri organized and celebrated ‘The International Widows Day’ on 23rd June 2023 at 11.30 am at Maa Dham, Chattikara road, Vrindavan. The Veer Naries and staff of War Widow Association were cordially invited by the Chairperson Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri. The six member team comprising General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare, Vice President Mrs. Devyanti Devi, Treasurer Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi, Administrative Officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch, members Mrs. Ganga Devi and Mrs.Bimla Devi attended the celebrations.

On this special day the chief Mahanta of the Pashupati Nath Temple in Nepal was the Chief Guest along with many other distinguished guests from other peethams and colleges. The programme started with the Mrs. Rama Vaidyanatha’s Bharatnatayam dance performance followed by Bhajans with live music. All the dignitaries and distinguished guests present in the function expressed their gratitude and boosted the moral of all the ladies staying in the Maa Dham. The Chief Mahanta of Pashupati Nath temple honoured Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri, Veer Naries and all the residents of Maa Dham by presenting them a shawl. The community meal was served after the function was over.

 

MEETING WITH NAVY OFFICIALS - 11/7/23

The officials from the Directorate of Ex- Servicemen I HQ MOD (Navy) CMDE Alok Ananda, YSM, CMDE (ESM Affairs) and CDR Saikat Mondal, CDR (ESM Affairs) made a courtesy visit to the War Widow Association at Shaheed Bhawan at 3 pm on 11th July 2023 to discuss varied issues concerning war widows and how to resolve the problems faced by them at different levels. They shared the vision of their organization and had a fruitful discussion with Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA, Mrs. Raj Sharma, Vice-President WWA and Mrs. Poonam Katoch, Administrative Officer WWA representing War Widows Association.

Many important and grave issues related to the emotional and financial sufferings of Veer Naries were pointed out followed by the discussion on how to alleviate these problems. During the discussion the Vice-President WWA, Mrs. Raj Sharma very aptly said that War Widow Association is a ‘RAY OF HOPE’ for all Veer Naries who can use our services. Many cases already dealt and resolved by the team of War Widow Association were brought into limelight by Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA. She also apprised them about the problems personally projected to her by the Veer Naries during her unofficial visit to them outside Delhi. Furthermore, she requested CMDE Alok Ananda, YSM, CMDE (ESM Affairs) to share the gallery of immortals from navy with WWA.

We are hopeful that the views and experiences shared in this open forum will certainly help in the well being of war widows of all the three armed forces. War Widow Association always appreciates and welcomes the organizations working for the cause of Veer Naries with open arms.

 

KARGIL DIVAS CELEBRATIONS WITH VEER NARIS ON -26/07/2023

The team of the War Widows Association headed by the Chairperson WWA Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri visited the Veer Naris at Vijay Veer Aavas, Kargil Apartments at Dwarka, New Delhi on the day of Kargil Divas on 26th July 2023 in the morning. In the community hall the Veer Naris place the picture of their husband and put a garland of marigold flowers around it on the stage. After that a havan was done. The President WWA Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay and the Administrative Officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch also attended the Havan ceremony organized at the community hall inside Kargil Apartments to pay homage to the Martyrs of Kargil war. The team from WWA took three boxes of sweets to distribute as Prasad after the havan ceremony. After the Havan, everyone present there moved to the ground for the flag hoisting ceremony. The Chairperson WWA Dr. Mrs. Giri hoisted the tricolor and everyone sang the National Anthem. Team WWA interacted and spent time with all the veer naris and their families.

 

FAREWELL OF Mrs. PREMA KALA ON SATURDAY -29/07/2023

On 29th July 2023 a formal farewell party was organized for Mrs. Prema Kala who served in the War Widow Association for more than two decades as the Administrative officer. All the members of WWA and advisors were for invited for the farewell party. The farewell party was attended by the Chairperson Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri, President Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, Senior Vice- President Mrs. Raj Sharma, Vice-President Mrs. Devyanti Devi, Advisor Mrs. Meera Khanna, Patron Lt. Gen V G Khandare PVSM, AVSM, SM, General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare, Joint Secretary Mrs. Nilam Singh, Treasurer Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi, Administrative officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch, members Mrs.Geeta Dod, Mrs. Kumud Kohli, Mrs. Sarika Gulati, Mrs. Deepmala Mohan, Mrs. Deep Jajmaan, Mrs. Ganga Devi, Mrs.Jayanti Devi, Mrs. Manorama, Mrs. Meera Devi, Mrs. Rekha, Mrs. Beena, Mrs. Bimla Rana, Mrs. Shanta Devi, Mrs. Veera Kumari, Admin staff from Guild for sevice, Mrs. Shahida, Mrs. Poonam Devi, and Office Incharge Mr. Jagat Singh Saini . The General Secretary WWA, Mrs Anjali karlare welcomed Mrs. Prema Kala and all the members seated there. All the members first gave their formal introduction and talked about their experience of working with Mrs. Prema Kala. Lt. Gen. V G Khandare, Patron WWA also shared with Veer Naris his most memorable experience and moments while in active service in the army. He also talked about his association & interaction with Brig. Sandeep Kala, husband of Mrs. Prema Kala. Mrs. Deepmala Mohan sang lovely numbers in her melodious voice to entertain all. Then Mrs. Prema Kala was requested to show her singing talent and she sang ‘Jab deep dhaley aana jab sham dhaley aana’ in her lovely melodious voice. The staff attending the farewell from Guild for Service also sang lovely semi classical songs. Besides these the Chairperson motivated all the members to sing bhajans in chorus. Mrs. Prema Kala and Mrs. Deepmala Mohan were presented a token of gratitude by the Chairperson Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri. Mrs. Prema Kala cut the cake with the Chairperson. Then the photo session carried on for some time. Everyone wanted to capture this emotional moment. All attendees were requested to move for lunch later.

 

VISIT TO MAYOOR SCHOOL AT NOIDA - 14/08/2023

Mrs. Anjali Karkare, General Secretary of the War Widow Association and a Veer Nari too was invited to the Annual Day Celebration of the Mayoor School at Noida on 14th August 2023. On that day a movie was also screened in the auditorium of the school for the senior students based on the book “THE SAGA OF A BRAVEHEART”. The book is written by Mrs. Shakuntala Ajit Bhandarkar on the life of her husband late Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar. Mrs. Shakuntala Ajit Bhandarkar is also a member of the war widows association. A Veer Mata Mrs. Pammi Bhardwaj was also invited by the school. The Principal of Mayoor School Mrs. Avasthy received and greeted very warmly all the guests.

The movie showed late Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar’s childhood too and many scenes were shot at the actual location where he had served being in Army. In the movie many of the officers who had served with him also talked about his courage, intellect and his valour in the battle field. The aim of screening the movie on the life of courageous officer Lt Col Ajit V Bhandarkar was to motivate the young minds to serve the motherland and choose Army as their career. It goes without saying that such a beautiful depiction of movie must have served its purpose of motivating the students to join army after the school. The entire event was a success.

 

MEETING WITH Mrs. SHAKUNTALA AJIT BHANDARKAR ON - 18/08/2023

Mrs. Shakuntala Ajit Bhandarkar wife of the brave heart Lt. Col Ajit V Bhandarkar decorated with Shaurya Chakra visited the office of War Widow Association on 18thAugust 2023. Mrs. Bhandarkar is a Veer Nari and a member of WWA presently stays in Bengaluru. She interacted informally with the President WWA Mrs.Damayanti V Tambay, General Secretary WWA Mrs. Anjali Karkare and the Administrative Officer WWA Mrs.Poonam Katoch and discussed various issues related to Veer Naris. She was invited by the Mayoor School to screen the documentary that she made on her husband’s life. Mrs. Tambay presented a token of gratitude to her.

 

VEER NARIES VISITED THE RASHTRAPATI BHAVAN ON - 12/09/2023

A group of 12 Veer Naries of various wars and conflicts were given the privilege to meet Mrs. Droupadi Murmu, the Hon’ble President of India on 12th September 2023 at 4.30.pm. The meeting was arranged by the kind offices of Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri, the Chairperson of WWA and assisted by Mrs Damayanti V Tambay, the President of WWA. All the ladies were very excited with the thought of visiting the President of India at the Rashtrapati Bhavan. The contingent was set off at the decided time and arrived at the Rashtrapati Bhavan allotted time after all the security checks. First of all we were made to sit in an Anteroom and were offered refreshments and after a while taken to a large conference hall where there was a very large oval table where Mrs. Droupadi Murmu was seated. After exchange of greetings and pleasantries Mrs Droupadi Murmu welcomed all the Veer Naries and we introduced ourselves one by one. Madame President greatly appreciated the sacrifice made by the brave hearts and the hardships their widows had experienced in their lives. One or two war widows had submitted their letters pertaining to their personal matter for the help from the President of India. . There was a suggestion and a letter submitted by the President of WWA Mrs. Tambay that those who laid down their lives in the defence of the nation should be awarded a ‘Padak’ and this padak would be handed over to the NOK whosoever parent/ widow of the brave heart. Infact it was suggested that this should be done by the Government with effect from 1947 conflict onwards covering all subsequent wars etc. Dr. Mrs. Mohini V Giri the Chairperson of WWA invited the Hon’ble President of India to honour one of our yearly programmes with her gracious presence. We found her to be a very soft spoken & elegant lady with a very beautiful outlook which is a part of her nature. We thanked the President for giving us her precious time. We all came out extremely happy after this meeting.

 

FULL CIRCLE CLINIC WORKSHOP ON - 29/09/2023

The first series of the FULL CIRCLE CLINIC WORKSHOP was organized on 29th of September 2023 at 11.30 am. The topic of this workshop was ‘TALKING TO KANI’. This workshop was the brain child of the treasurer WWA and the Homeopathic doctor Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi. The purpose of this workshop was to encourage the participants to share and give vent to the deep rooted feelings and to feel better mentally. Those who were listening could also contribute in consoling the speaker and share their experience if they had also faced a similar situation in their lives. The Chairperson WWA Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri , Vice Presidents Mrs. Raj Sharma and Mrs. Devyanti Devi, General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare attended the workshop. There were almost thirty participants of varied age groups. This forum gave the privilege to meet and hear the remarkable Veer Naris /Veer Matas/Veer Pitas and the Veer Parents who have who have always displayed immense strength and resilience in the face of adversity. They endured the unimaginable loss of their loved ones but still inspire others with their unwavering courage and indomitable spirits. After listening to all the speakers it was we all realized that in the face of adversity, it is the human connections, love, and acts of kindness that holds’ the greatest value and reminds us of the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. They inspire us to be better, to cherish the relationships we have, and to live each day with a grateful heart. Such activities fill our hearts with kindness and a sense of purpose and renewed commitment to be a better person. After the event the Chairperson Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri gave a small gift to all the participants as a token of gratitude. It was followed by refreshments.

 

MEDICAL CAMP TO CHECK THE BONE DENSITY ORGANIZED BY Dr. Mrs. SHUBHA TRIPATHI IN WWA ON - 10/10/2023

On Tuesday, 10th October 2023 a Medical Camp was organized in the premises of the War Widows Association under the supervision of Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi. The camp started with the arrival of the Chairperson WWA Mrs. V Mohini Giri. The General Secretary WWA, Mrs. Anjali Karkare welcomed the Chairperson and all the guests and then she requested the Administrative officer WWA, Mrs. Poonam Katoch to brief the participants about the procedure of the Bone Density test and the two forms that were given to all. Once the process was made clear to the participants Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi talked in details about the symptoms, cure, causes and effect of poor bone density. She explained in details how one can improve his/her bone density and maintain a proper bone structure in their bodies. A handout Many Veer Naris from the Vijay Veer Awas, Dwarka, the full Staff of Guild of Service and GHSEE Pvt Ltd attended the medical Camp and got their test done. Many people from close vicinity of WWA also came for their check up. There were almost 65 people who keenly participated and were benefitted by it. All their queries were well attended and answered by Dr. Tripathi. One by one all the participants were made to sit near the machine and their left foot was put inside the machine. Within minutes the report of their bone density came out of the printer attached to the machine by the assistant. After the test Dr.Mrs. Shubha Tripathi attended all the patients one by one and discussed their bone density report in details and instructed them about the further treatment, exercises to be done on daily bases and the diet to be taken. She also gave the calcium tablets in the severe cases. All the participants found this test very useful and requested the Chairperson to conduct more such camps. 

 

CELEBRATING MOHINI GIRI A FULL AND FILLED LIFE IN THE SEVICE OF THE UNDER PREVILLEGED ON – 10/01/2024

On 10th of January the Guild for Service and the War widows Association together organized a function ‘Celebrating Mohini Giri – A full filled Life in the service of the under privileged’ to pay homage to Late Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri, the Founder Chairperson of both these organizations. The programme was compered by Ms. Latha Nair, Member in Charge, Sannidhi School Najafgarh. It was as follows:

1. INTERFAITH PEACE PRAYER AT 3.00 PM: Bhai prayer, Buddhist prayer, Christian prayer, Hindu prayer, Islamic prayer, Jain prayer, Parsi prayer, Sikh prayer.

2. TRIBUTE BY MEERA KHANNA, Truatee and President on behalf of the Guild AT 3.36 PM.

3. READING OUT THE MESSAGES AT 3.40 to 4.10 PM:

1. President by Dr.Malash Lal Convenor Rajasthan intervention, Guild

2. Former Prime Minister Dr. Manmohan Singh by Manali Singhal, Trustee, Guild.

3. Dr. Sonia Gandhi by Sujaya Krishnan (IAS)member Guild

4. Bhajan by kumud Diwan

5. Tribute by Damayanti V Tambay, President War Widows Association.

6. Film Life and times of Mohini Giri

7. Song by Dr. Giri’s disciple in singing Sarita Toppo

8. Messages from ascross the world

9. Still we rise: excerpts from the film by Meera Diwan

10. Tributes

4. Later the following Family members and friends pay tribute to her:

1. Mr. GIRISH GIRI : SON

2. Mrs. SARASWATI GIRI: DAUGHTER

3. MEMBER SECRETARY:NCW

4. Dr. SYEDA HAMEED: SHAGIRD COLLEAGUE AND FRIEND

5. LAKSHMI VEKATARAMAN on behalf of the late President R Venktaraman’s family

6. KALYANI RAJ, PRESIDENT AIDWA

7. MARIAM DHAWALE, GENERAL SECRETARY AIDWA

8. VASANTHI RAMAN. PRESIDENT CWDS

9. PAM RAJPUT VICE PRESIDENT MAHILA DAKSHITA SAMITI

10. ANNIE RAJA GENERAL SECRETARY NATIONAL FEDERATION OF INDIAN WOMEN

11. Mrs.JYOTSANA CHATTERJEE FOUNDER JOINT WOMEN’S PROGRAMME

5. AT 4.50 PM there was BHAJAN by RENE SINGH

6. WRAP UP AND INVITATION TO TEA.

 

5TH MARTYRS’ MEMORIAL LECTURE ORGANIZED ON - 03/02/2024

The 5th Martyrs’ Memorial lecture was organized by WWA on 3rd February in the auditorium of United service Institution of India at Shankar Vihar, New Delhi. All the guests and members were requested to reach USI at 10.30 am. All guests were served tea in the adjacent hall and interacted with each other. This was the first programme organized after the death of the founder Chairperson of WWA Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri. WWA has also lost the former President of WWA Mrs. Jasjiwan Kaur recently. The pictures of both of them were placed at the entrance so that all the participants could pay tribute to them. The Chief Guest for the day Air Marshal Dr Padma Bandopadhya Padma Shri, (Retd) PVSM, AVSM, VSM, Lt Gen Shankar Prasad (Retd) PVSM, VSM and Lt Gen V G Khandare (Retd) PVSM, AVSM, SM laid wreaths along with the President, Vice – President and the General Secretary WWA. After tea all guests were seated in the main hall for the lecture. The topic of this lecture was “THE INDUCTION OF WOMEN COMBATANTS INTO THE ARMED FORCES: OUTCOME AND CHALLENGES”. The Chief Guest, Patrons, President and General Secretary were requested to be seated on the dais. At the beginning, two minutes silence was observed as a mark of respect to the departed souls. The President Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay delivered the welcome address. She apprised the audience about the how WWA resolved the varied problems faced by the Veer Naris and the achievements of WWA in the recent past. After that General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare requested the Guest of Honour Lt. Gen V G Khandare (Retd), PVSM, AVSM, SM, Principal Advisor, Ministry of Defense, Govt. of India to address the august gathering. He gave a very short synopsis on war widows. Then General Secretary requested the Chief Guest Air Marshal Dr. Padma Bandoupadhaya (Retd) Pdma Shri, PVSM, AVSM, VSM give the keynote address. Mrs. Anjali Karkare said that WWA is truly honoured by her presence. She said Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyay joined Air force in 1968 as a doctor and the first lady to be promoted to the rank of Air Marshal with an amazing groundbreaking career in the Air Force as a flying doctor and highly decorated. The General Secretary thanked her for her very enlightening narration about her career and what all she faced as a serving lady officer. Air Marshal Padma Bandopadhyay gave a much-focused speech on ins & outs of women combatant officers. She enumerated her experiences with slides giving a true picture of what all she faced and the problems that exist for women who are in the armed forces. After this Lt Gen Shankar Prasad gave a short speech on the related topic. Mrs. Anjali Karkare while administering the vote of thanks in the end thanks the Chief Guest, Patrons, Dr. Mrs. Jyotsana Chatterji, Mrs. Meera Khanna, Sanjay Krishna, Nirmala Mallik, Gautam Sen, Dr. Ramakant Dwivedi, Dr. Indra Bahadur Thapa President NPP Nepal, Sushrata Sen and others for taking out to time off to attend our function and make it a grand success in this cold climate. We all remembered Dr. Mrs. V Mohini Giri fondly and missed her a lot throughout the function for her work in giving WWA a firm footing and the guidance we received from her from time to time in all these years. In the end a shawl was presented to the Chief Guest and anga vastra to the Patrons. The congregation was invited for lunch and disbursed.

WREATH LAYING CEREMONY OF Lt COLONEL RAJESH GULATI, SM ON - 11/02/2024

Mrs. Sarika Gulati, a Veer Nari paid tribute to her brave husband Lt Col Rajesh Gulati, SM of 220 Regiment of Army Aviation Core on his Martyrdom Day. He was martyred on 11th February 2024 during Operation Rakshak in Manasbal, Bandipura District, Srinagar ( J & K). In his memory and to pay tribute to Lt Col Rajesh Gulati a formal Wreath laying ceremony was conducted by his wife, son, the officers and the ladies of his unit at the National War Memorial located at India Gate, New Delhi. The WWA President Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay , Admin Officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch, Mrs. Shikha Jain , a Veer Nari, Veer Mata Mrs. Pammi Bhardwaj and Veer Pita Mr. Shekhawat also paid tribute to him on that day.

WREATH LAYING CEREMONY FOR SHAHEED MAJOR S M DEO, SM ON - 27/02/2024

On 27th February 2024 a formal wreath laying ceremony was conducted at the National War Memorial located at India Gate, New Delhi. WWA representative from Maharashtra and a Veer Nari Mrs. Neela Deo Phadnis paid tribute to her brave husband Major S M Deo, SM who was martyred in 1965 war. President WWA, Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, General Secretary WWA, Mrs. Anjakli Karkare, Administrative Officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch and Veer Mata Mrs. Pammi Bhardwaj also paid tribute to the warrior of 1965 war Shaheed Major S M Deo who laid his life while saving our motherland.

REPORT ON THE BHAJAN SANDHYA ORGANIZED ON - 1/3/2024

A Bhajan Sandhya was jointly organized by the War Widows Association, Guild for Service and Gandhi Smriti on 1.3.2024 at 3.30 pm onwards AT Kirti Mandapam Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti located at Tees January Marg, New Delhi to celebrate ‘THE INTERNATIONAL DAY OF ZERO DISCRIMINATION AND THE WEEK OF INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY’. All Veer Naris were invited to participate in this celebration. Mrs. Gursharan Kaur , wife of the former prime minister Mr. Manmohan Singh was the chief guest for the day . Mrs. Sushma Seth, a renowned film star and Mr. Vijay Goel , BJP leader and director of the Gandhi Smriti and Darshan Samiti and Mrs. Sayeeda Hameed were amongst the other distinguished guests who graced the occasion. The programme started with welcome speech by WWA President, Mrs.Damayanti V Tambay followed by interfaith peace prayer by children from Delhi. Prayers of all religions were recited by these children which made the environment very serene. Mrs. Sudha Raghuraman acclaimed vocalist and composer presented bhajans from different parts of India which were enjoyed by the audience present there. Tea and samosas were served to all guests after the programme. It was a well enjoyed programme.

VISIT OF Mrs. ARCHANA PANDE, PRESIDENT AWWA TO THE WAR WIDOWS ASSOCIATION AT SHAHEED BHAWAN ON - 20/3/2024

On 20th March 2024 Mrs. Archana Pande, President AWWA visited the War Widows Association at Shaheed Bhawan along with her staff officer Lt. Col. Gayatri Sharma and the private secretary Mrs. Poonappa at 12.30 pm. She was received by the President WWA Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, General Secretary Mrs.Anjali Karkare and the Administrative officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch. Mrs. Pande first visited the Homeopathy clinic and met the Homeopathy doctor Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi and the veer naris from Kargil Avas Dwarka who were the patients. Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi explained her in details the day to day working of the Homeopathy clinic and the number of patients under treatment and taking medicines regularly from the homeopathy clinic .She also visited the play school area and the room with sewing machines on the ground floor. After that Mrs. Archana Pande was brought to the first floor to the main office where she and her team was honoured by the President WWA Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay and were presented bouquet and Angavastra by her, General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare and the Treasurer and Homeopathy doctor Mrs. Shubha Tripathi. She also met all the members of the Executive Committee. This was followed by a very fruitful interaction between the AAWA Chairperson and WWA team. Lot many creative activities, job opportunities and beneficial projects useful for Veer Naris were discussed. Tea and snacks were served later. In the end the guests gracefully departed after bidding WWA goodbye and assuring more such visits.

FULL CIRCLE CLINIC WORKSHOP ABOUT MENTAL WELL BEING ON - 05/04/2024

In WWA at Shaheed Bhawan an event ‘MEET AND GREET’ was organized on 5th April 2024. The third workshop of the ‘FULL CIRCLE CLINIC’ on ‘MENTAL WELL BEING’ was conducted by the treasurer and Homeopathy doctor of WWA Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi for the Veer Naris. Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA, Vice- Presidents Mrs. Raj Sharma and Mrs. Devyanti Devi, General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare, Veteran member of WWA Mrs. Usha Singh, Administrative officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch, many Veer Naris from Vijay Veer Awas , Dwarka , New Delhi and some Veer Naris from Bengaluru who were touring New Delhi also participated enthusiastically in this workshop. 

Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripati talked in details about 

1. Diaphragmatic Breathing – its steps and benefits. 

2. Oxytocin Hormone – its functions and effects. 

3. Serotonin Hormone – a happy hormone, its functions, Serotonin Vs Dopamine. 

4. Dopamine Hormone – its functions and symptoms. 

5. Norepinephrine Hormone – ‘Fight or Flight’ responses, its functions, deficiency and side effects. 

6. Glutamate & Acetylchloline – their relationship, functions, and effect on memory. 

Dr. Shubha Tripathi covered all medical aspect of how to remain mentally agile and healthy. She also conducted some creative activities to clear the concept of mental well being besides yogic breathing exercises. All the attendees participated in the activities with enthusiasm and zeal. It was a very beneficial workshop. The prizes were distributed to the winner of the group activities. All the participants were presented a memento each. The community lunch in the end.  

VISIT OF VEER NARIS & VEER BETI FROM BENGALURU - 05/04/2024

A small contingent of Veer Naris with their children and children of the Martyrs came on a tour to Delhi for three days i.e. 5th, 6th and 7th of April 2024. Their purpose of visiting Delhi was to pay tribute to their Shaheed husband or father at the War Memorial in New Delhi and spend time at the War Widows Association at Shaheed Bhawan. Prominent among those who visited the War Widows Association were Smt. Sangeeta W/o Late Hav. Kashiraj Bammanalli, Smt. Pooja W/o Late LNK Parashrama Khaytannavar, Smt. Sharada Lingadalli W/o late Sepoy Basavantray Lingadalli with her daughter Sanjana and Ms. Vanita Gadaily D/o Sepoy A. Muniyappam along with her daughter Shishti. They also visited ISCON Temple, Kutub Minar etc.in Delhi with the members of WWA.

Fortunately on 5th April 2024, the day they visited the Office of the War Widows Association an event ‘MEET AND GREET’ was organized. The third workshop of the ‘FULL CIRCLE CLINIC’ on ‘MENTAL WELL BEING’ conducted by the treasurer and Homeopathy doctor of WWA Dr. Mrs. Shubha Tripathi for the Veer Naris of Delhi and Gurgaon. Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA, Vice- Presidents Mrs. Raj Sharma and Mrs. Devyanti Devi, General Secretary Mrs. Anjali Karkare, Veteran member of WWA Mrs. Usha Singh, Administrative officer Mrs. Poonam Katoch, many Veer Naris from Vijay Veer Awas , Dwarka , New Delhi enthusiastically participated in this workshop and the Veer Naris from Bengaluru who were touring New Delhi could also accompany them.

For their enjoyment and interaction amongst each other many games related to the workshop were organized for the Veer Naris so that they could win prizes. As a souvenir they were presented a suit material along with an apron, bag and napkins made at WWA by Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay, President WWA. In the end they were served snacks and tea with all the participants of the event.

INTERNATIONAL WIDOWS’ DAY CELEBRATION ON – 22/06/2024

The Guild under the guidance of the late Dr V Mohini Giri has been one of the pioneering organization working on the issue of widows and widowhood. The Guild has spearheaded the global alliance The Last Woman and the regional alliance South Asian Network for Widows Empowered in Development incorporating organizations working on the issue of widows.

The Guild was privileged to conduct a survey in five states with the support of the NHRC on the human rights of widows and brought out the study “Abandoned Widows: Voiced yet voiceless; visible yet invisible.”

To mark the occasion of the International widows Day the Guild for Service released the survey into the public domain so that the narrative for the empowerment of this marginalised segment is catalysed. The Special Guests of Honour on this occasion were Smt.Vijaya Bharathi Sayani, Hon’ble member, National Human Rights Commission and Dr. Rashmi Singh (IAS) Principal Resident Commissioner, Government of Jammu & Kashmir. From the War Widows Association the President,Mrs. Damayanti V Tambay participated in the conference on "Abandoned Widows: Voiced yet voiceless; Visible yet Invisible "conducted by Guild of Service at India International centre, at Max Mullar Marg, New Delhi on 22nd June 2024.