New Delhi: In a significant move to deepen the national commitment toward veterans’ welfare, Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh will inaugurate the National Conclave 2025 on the theme ‘Viksit Bharat and Ex-Servicemen Welfare’, being organised by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), Ministry of Defence, from September 29–30, 2025.
The conclave will take place in the national capital and aims to bring together policymakers, welfare administrators, and grassroots stakeholders to discuss strategies and policies for the holistic reintegration and empowerment of India’s ex-servicemen.
Strengthening the Backbone of Veteran Support
Secretary (DESW), Dr. Niten Chandra, will also be present during the inaugural session, which will set the tone for a two-day series of discussions, exchanges, and recognitions.
Key participants include officials from –
- Rajya Sainik Boards (RSBs)
- Zila Sainik Boards (ZSBs)
- Representatives from armed forces veteran associations
- Domain experts in healthcare, employment, and rehabilitation for ex-servicemen
The conclave aims to strengthen coordination across all levels of veteran care, identify actionable policy gaps, and share best practices from across the country to enhance delivery mechanisms.
Empowering Veterans, Building Viksit Bharat
The central theme – ‘Viksit Bharat and Ex-Servicemen Welfare’ – reflects the government’s broader vision to make veterans active contributors in India’s developmental journey.
Discussions will center on –
- Effective implementation of welfare schemes
- Re-skilling and upskilling for second careers
- Pension reforms and grievance redressal
- Mental health and rehabilitation services
These efforts are aimed at integrating ex-servicemen as empowered citizens contributing to Atmanirbhar Bharat and Amrit Kaal goals.
Recognition of Excellence in Veteran Services
A key highlight of the conclave will be the felicitation ceremony, where the Raksha Mantri will honour distinguished individuals, as well as top-performing RSBs and ZSBs, for their outstanding work in the field of ex-servicemen welfare.
This recognition aims to celebrate dedication and excellence, while inspiring broader participation and performance across states and districts.
Significance of the Conclave
This high-level event aligns with the government’s long-standing focus on “Veterans First” and aims to –
- Strengthen institutional frameworks
- Foster inclusivity and dignity for veterans
- Encourage public-private partnerships in veteran welfare
- Integrate technology for seamless service delivery
The National Conclave 2025 is expected to create actionable pathways and collaborative momentum toward the realisation of a Viksit Bharat by 2047, with veterans playing a central role.
