08 December,2025 04:56 PM IST | Nagpur | mid-day online correspondent
CM Fadnavis urged citizens to contribute to the Flag Day Fund as per their capacity as a mark of respect to the armed forces. Pic/X
Maharashtra Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on Monday launched fund-raising drive at Ramgiri, his residence in Nagpur and said that the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund has become a crucial source of support for the families of soldiers who live difficult lives and make great sacrifices for the nation, reported the PTI.
He said that while the life of a martyred soldier is priceless, the government has strengthened its support system by increasing financial assistance for their families from Rs 25 lakh to Rs 1 crore, according to the PTI.
The Maharashtra Chief Minister's Office (CMO), in a post on X, stated that Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis launched the fundraising campaign for Armed Forces Flag Day 2025 on Monday. The campaign aims to support soldiers, ex-servicemen and the families of martyred personnel. Minister Shambhuraj Desai, MoS Adv. Ashish Jaiswal, members of the Indian Armed Forces, families of martyrs and several dignitaries were present at the event. The Chief Minister emphasised the importance of honouring the sacrifices of soldiers and encouraged citizens to contribute generously to the Flag Day Fund.
CM Fadnavis stated that the dedication of Indian soldiers "cannot be measured", and highlighted several government initiatives aimed at helping the families of serving and retired personnel.
He said that many citizens voluntarily contribute small amounts from their daily earnings, and the collected funds are used for meaningful welfare schemes for ex-servicemen and their dependents.
Speaking at the event, CM Fadnavis said that during Operation Sindoor, the world once again saw the bravery of the Indian Army -- one of the strongest forces globally and fully capable of dealing with future challenges, according to the PTI.
He urged citizens to contribute to the Flag Day Fund as per their capacity as a mark of respect to the armed forces.
The fund-raising campaign was formally launched by pinning the Flag Day badge.
Officials from various departments and the district administration were felicitated for achieving the collection target. Florists Ashish Gadikar and Santosh Gadikar, who donate Rs 500 every month, were specially honoured. Major Hemant Jakate, a veteran of the 1965 and 1971 wars, donated Rs 50,000, while Geeta Kothe contributed Rs 1 lakh.
Children of ex-servicemen who had excelled academically were also honoured.
Officials reported that Nagpur district collected Rs 3.51 crore in 2024, making it one of the top districts in Maharashtra. The same target has been set for 2025.
(with PTI inputs)
