The Indian Ex-Services League (IESL), Odisha, has elected a new state executive body following its Annual General Body Meeting in Bhubaneswar. The event drew participation from ex-servicemen’s representatives across the state and reviewed major achievements of the past 15 years.

Review of Key Achievements

The meeting, inaugurated by Veteran Group Captain Jagdananda Brahma, saw General Secretary Veteran Bidyadhar Nayak present a detailed report on the League’s milestones.

• Reservation of seats for children of ex-servicemen in OUAT.

• Facility to purchase vehicles through the CSD Canteen in Bhubaneswar, removing the need to travel to Ranchi, Visakhapatnam, or Kolkata.

• Inclusion of girl students in Sainik Schools after engagement with the Defence Ministry.

• Advocacy for a shipbuilding yard along Odisha’s coast.

• Supreme Court directive to establish an Armed Forces Tribunal (AFT) in Odisha.

• Ongoing efforts to resolve bureaucratic and judicial delays affecting veterans.

Call for Political Representation

Chief Guest and historian Shri Anil Dhir lauded the discipline and patriotism of ex-servicemen, urging their greater involvement in governance. He proposed 10% political reservation for ex-servicemen from Panchayats to Parliament, arguing that such participation could strengthen democracy and governance.

Recognition of Contributions

Social activist Shri Rajat Kumar Mishra and Yogacharya Dr. Vishwaranjan Rath were honoured during the meeting for their service to society.

New State Executive Body

The outgoing executive council was dissolved, and elections were held for new office bearers. The results are as follows:

• President: Col (Retd) Jyotirmay Satapathy

• General Secretary: Veteran Bidyadhar Nayak

• Senior Vice President: Wing Commander (Retd) Dr. Rajesh Nigam

• Vice Presidents: Veteran Rabindra Kumar Sahu (Sena Medal), Veteran Maheshwar Dixit

• Joint Secretary: Veteran Dinabandhu Sadangi

• Treasurer: Air Veteran Arun Mohanty

• Executive Members: Wing Commander (Retd) Prabhas Chandra Patnaik, Veteran Kali Prasad Mishra

• Legal Advisors: Shri Bijan Kumar Thamba, Advocate Rajat Kumar Mishra

• Advisors: Group Captain (Retd) Jagdananda Brahma, Veteran Rotarian Samarendra Parija, Army Veteran Har Prasad Dora

Commitment to the Veteran Community

The newly elected executive pledged to work collectively for the welfare, rights, and recognition of Odisha’s ex-servicemen, with a renewed commitment to the League’s goals.

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