New Delhi, December 19, 2005 (UNI)

The Rashtriya Sainik Morcha, an association of ex-servicemen and civilians working towards nation building, has demanded constitution of a Commission for ensuring the welfare of retired defence personnel.

The government should constitute a Commission, on the lines of the NCW and the Minority Commission, for ensuring that the interests of about one crore ex-servicemen are protected, Morcha President Col Tejendra Pal Tyagi said at the second National Convention of the organisation here.

Pointing out that retired defence personnel were willing to work towards nation building, Col Tyagi requested the government to provide for some base in all districts so that a dedicated team of workers, comprising both ex-servicemen and civilians, could operate from there.

The members also demanded a ''Saheed Sthal'' in every district to encourage and inspire people to serve the nation.

Lt Gen A S Jamwal, Adjutant General of Indian Army, who was the Chief guest on the occasion, said that he had been associated with the Morcha since the past three years and supported its patriotic activities.

Scores of members from 16 states attended the convention held last week.