Sailors Forum
Indian Navy

1. Over the years, the Indian Navy has taken a number of steps to fulfill its obligations towards its veterans. Whilst in service, the sailor's requirements, both service related as well as on personal front are very well looked after by the time tested Divisional System, which is the strength of the Navy. However, post retirement, organisational support to assist/guide them has not been provided till date. Although, Naval Headquarters has been instrumental in disbursing information on various welfare measures among the veteran community through Commands, outlying units and through the internet, a certain degree of void still exists.

2. In order to address this shortcoming and further extend the support of the Navy to its veterans, a 'Sailors' Forum' is being established shortly.

3. Objectives of the Forum. The objectives of the Sailors' Forum will be as follows:-

(a) Independent nodal naval agency for ex-sailors with focal attention towards welfare activities and assistance in resettlement issues.
(b) Act as interface between naval veterans and concerned Directorates / units under IHQ of MOD (N) viz DESA, DGR, CABS, and NPO etc.
(c) Enhance reach of interaction with veterans and widows/dependents of veterans.
(d) Provide a platform for sharing of information with regard to veterans issues.
(e) Furtherance of Naval image in the civil street.

4. Membership. Membership of the Forum will be open to all ex-Naval personnel, who have veterans status in terms of GOI notifications at a nominal one time membership fee. Widows membership will be free.

5. In the beginning, it is proposed to set up the Forum at New Delhi and will be followed by establishment of Forum office at Commands. Necessary guidance/assistance will be provided by DESA, so that the organisation becomes self sustaining in 2/3 years.