Dehradun, April 10 -- Chief minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Thursday said the state government is working with full commitment towards the welfare of soldiers, martyrs and their families, adding that several measures have been taken to strengthen support systems for ex-servicemen and dependents of martyrs in the state. Speaking at the 'Gaurav Sainik Samman Samaroh' organised by Seva Sankalp Dharini Foundation in Khatima area of US Nagar district, the chief minister said the state government has enhanced financial assistance to martyrs' families and gallantry award winners while also expanding opportunities for their dependents. Dhami said the "ex-gratia amount given to the families of martyrs has been increased and government jobs are being provided to their dependents as part of the government's welfare initiatives." "Our government is committed to ensuring that the families of soldiers who sacrifice their lives for the nation receive due respect, support and opportunities," the chief minister said. He said that the monetary award for soldiers honoured with the Param Vir Chakra has been increased from Rs.50 lakh to Rs.1.5 crore. The chief minister also highlighted that the state government has extended the application period for government jobs for the dependents of martyrs from two years to five years so that eligible family members get adequate time to avail the benefit. Dhami further said that a grand 'Sainya Dham', a military memorial dedicated to soldiers from Uttarakhand, is being constructed in Dehradun. The memorial will showcase the sacrifices and bravery of soldiers from the state and is expected to inspire future generations with a spirit of patriotism. On the occasion, the chief minister inaugurated a CSD canteen constructed at a cost of Rs.715.51 lakh and a 'Sainik Milan Kendra' built at a cost of Rs.162.26 lakh. These facilities have been developed to provide better services and support to ex-servicemen and their families in the region. During the programme, Dhami paid floral tributes to the portrait of his late father, Subedar Sher Singh Dhami, whose sixth death anniversary was observed on the day. He also honoured the families of martyrs and 'Veer Naris' (war widows) by draping shawls over them. A total of 60 Veer Naris and 80 gallantry award-winning soldiers were felicitated during the event. Describing the moment as emotional, Dhami said the programme was organised in the memory of his father and reminded him of the values and principles he inherited from him. He said his father's dedication to the uniform and commitment to the nation continue to inspire him in public life. Dhami said his father served for 28 years in the Mahar Regiment and participated in several major conflicts and operations, including the Sino-Indian War, the Indo-Pakistani War, the Indo-Pakistani War as well as Operation Blue Star and Operation Rakshak. He said that during his childhood he often listened to stories of bravery narrated by his father, which instilled in him a deep sense of patriotism and respect for soldiers. Highlighting developments in India's defence sector, the chief minister said the country has witnessed significant growth in defence production under the leadership of Narendra Modi. He said defence production has increased from about Rs.46,000 crore in 2014-15 to nearly Rs.1.54 lakh crore in 2024-25. Dhami added that defence exports have also risen significantly and currently stand at around Rs.38,000 crore, with India supplying defence equipment to more than 80 countries around the world....