Kathmandu, May 10

Acting Prime Minister Ishwor Pokharel has called on former soldiers to contribute to make government’s dream of ‘Prosperous Nepal, Happy Nepali’ come true.

Addressing the closing session of the fifth convention of the Nepal Ex-servicemen’s Association of the Nepali Army today, Acting PM Pokharel commended former soldiers. He said, “Former soldiers have been playing a significant role in social development and enhancing the country’s prestige.”

Pledging to address the issues of ex-soldiers by devising some programmes, Pokharel said, “The state could realise the dream of development through contributions of Gurkha soldiers who are renowned across the world for their integrity and bravery.”

Chief of General Staff, Lieutenant General Sharad Kumar Giri lauded the role of former soldiers in keeping intact the institutional values even after retirement.

Retired brigadier general Digambar Shumsher Rana said the association had been working for the welfare of retired Nepali Army personnel and their families.

The association has been working as a social organisation since its establishment in 1954.

During the convention, suggestions were solicited from former soldiers in the association and its statute was amended, according to Nepali Army’s Directorate of Public Relations and Information.

The event was attended by former chiefs of Nepali Army, Nepali Army’s present and retired officers, lieutenant generals, former officials of Nepal Police and Armed Police Force.