#DefenseDiaries: Jawans do their bit, now it's time to reciprocate
On December 7 every year, India pays homage to its valiant soldiers and martyrs by celebrating Armed Forces Flag Day. This year, Defense Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has launched a campaign from December 1st to 7th to celebrate Armed Forces Week. She has appealed to Indians to proudly wear the armed forces flag and donate for their welfare. Here's how you can support your troops.
Raksha Mantri appeals for your steadfast support
Why is Armed Forces Flag Day celebrated?
Since 1949, December 7 has been celebrated as Armed Forces Flag Day (AFFD). The day sees armed forces formations nationwide organizing variety shows, carnivals etc. for civilians. The AFFD is also an opportunity for civilians to donate voluntarily towards AFFD Fund, set up in 1993. Small flags and car stickers with red, deep blue and light blue colors, representing the three services, are distributed.
Who benefits from the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund?
Countless troops are martyred or disabled in the wars and counter-insurgency operations conducted by our armed forces. Every year, an estimated 60,000 servicemen take compulsory retirement. Various central and state-level schemes provide them with inadequate support. Hence, the AFFD Fund was set up to provide support to war widows; disabled, non-pensioner, old and infirm ex-servicemen; as well as their families.
How you can contribute to the AFFD Fund
The Modi government has set up various cashless methods to encourage citizens to contribute generously. You can transfer money to the AFFD Fund through the PayTM number 8800462175 and UPI code: armedforcesflagdayfund@sbi . You can access ksb.gov.in/armed-forces-flag-day-fund.htm to contribute through Credit/Debit Card or Net Banking. You can also collect the Armed Forces Flag from all government offices or download a printable version from ksb.gov.in
