LUCKNOW, Jan. 15 -- The city marked the 10th Armed Forces Veterans Day on Wednesday with a mega rally held at Surya Auditorium under the aegis of Headquarters Madhya Uttar Pradesh Sub Area. The programme was organised to honour the service and sacrifices of India's armed forces veterans. Union minister of state SP Singh Baghel attended the event as chief guest and interacted with veterans, thanking them for their contribution to the nation. Lieutenant General Navin Sachdeva, chief of staff, Headquarters Central Command, and additional chief secretary (social welfare and Sainik Kalyan) L Venkateswarlu were also present, highlighting coordination between the armed forces and the state government for veteran welfare. More than 700 veterans from Lucknow and nearby areas took part in the rally. Several help desks were set up at the venue to address their concerns. These included grievance redressal counters, Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS) assistance, medical check-up facilities and information on welfare schemes. The Uttar Pradesh Purva Sainik Kalyan Nigam briefed veterans about ongoing and future welfare and resettlement programmes. As a mark of respect, veterans were felicitated with shawls, and refreshments and lunch were arranged. Officials said the event was a reminder that while soldiers retire from service, their contribution to the nation continues to be valued and remembered....