ITANAGAR, 25 Sep: Highlighting Arunachal Pradesh' strategic importance, Governor KT Parnaik on Friday emphasised the need to further strengthen civil-military liaison.

During a meeting with 101 Area General Officer Commanding (GOC) Lt Gen Mohit Waghwa at the Lok Bhavan here, the governor commended the pivotal role of 101 Area, headquartered in Shillong (Meghalaya), in ensuring seamless combat logistics and operational coordination across the region.

He appreciated the command's prompt and professional response during natural disasters, including floods and landslides, where timely rescue, relief, and rehabilitation efforts have brought invaluable support to affected communities.

He said that close coordination among the armed forces, state government, and civil administration is essential for effective disaster response and public welfare initiatives. He suggested enhancing transit routes, communication networks, and administrative infrastructure to support troop movement and border area logistics.

Parnaik urged the GOC to further strengthen welfare measures for ex-servicemen and veer naris, with particular emphasis on improving access to the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS), and empanelling of state healthcare institutions. He also highlighted the importance of facilitating access to other welfare programmes, including resettlement and skill development initiatives, educational assistance for children of ex-servicemen, pension-related services, and reemployment of veterans under provisions provided by the state government.

The governor suggested conducting regular awareness camps and medical outreach activities in remote areas, and ensuring closer coordination with the Rajya Sainik Board and Zilla Sainik Boards to ensure that every eligible veteran and family member is able to avail of the benefits and entitlements provided by the government.

The GOC assured the governor of the Indian Army's continued commitment to maintaining close coordination and extending all possible support for the security, development, and wellbeing of the people of Arunachal. (Lok Bhavan)