Agartala, March 2 (NationPress) The Indian Army’s Albert Ekka Brigade of the Red Shield Division, operating under the auspices of the Spear Corps, successfully hosted a state-level mega rally for ex-servicemen at the Agartala Military Station on Monday.

According to Defence spokesman Lt Col Mahendra Rawat, the event attracted an impressive turnout of over 1,500 veterans and Veer Naris from all eight districts of Tripura, showcasing the Army’s unwavering dedication to the welfare of its veteran community.

The rally was graced by the presence of Indrasena Reddy Nallu, the Governor of Tripura, who served as the Chief Guest, alongside senior military and civilian officials, including Lt Gen Abhijit S. Pendharkar, the General Officer Commanding (GOC) of the Spear Corps.

During the event, veterans and Veer Naris were honored for their esteemed service and ultimate sacrifice for the nation.

Lt Col Rawat mentioned that a variety of facilitation stalls were set up, offering services such as ECHS assistance, SPARSH pension support, Aadhaar facilitation, banking services for defence veterans, and medical consultations with on-the-spot distribution of medicines to fulfill the welfare needs of ex-servicemen and their families.

Moreover, a “Know Your Army” exhibition was conducted to educate and pique the interest of Tripura's citizens and NCC cadets about the Indian Army.

This display emphasized the Army's ethos, operational strengths, modern equipment, and career opportunities, thereby fostering deeper military-civil connections and inspiring the youth.

The event culminated with vibrant cultural performances that celebrated the region's rich heritage, further solidifying the bond between the Armed Forces and the people of Tripura.

The Albert Ekka Brigade boasts a notable history, having participated in the 1971 India-Pakistan war from the Tripura sector and holding the unique distinction of receiving two of the highest gallantry awards during both war and peacetime, including the only Param Vir Chakra awarded during the 1971 conflict.

Recently, the Brigade was relocated to the Agartala Military Station, a move of significant importance as it was launched into Operation Cactus Lily during the 1971 war from the Agartala sector.

The spokesman also highlighted that the Albert Ekka Brigade played a crucial role in the Battle of Gangasagar near the Tripura border during the 1971 war, where Lance Naik Albert Ekka of 14 Guards made the ultimate sacrifice while neutralizing a critical enemy bunker that posed a substantial threat to Agartala.

For his extraordinary bravery, he was posthumously awarded the Param Vir Chakra.