JAMMU, Jun 27: J&K Ex-Services League (JKESL), the oldest, largest and Government-recognised organisation of Ex-Servicemen in Jammu & Kashmir, has welcomed the merger of J&K Ex-Services Welfare Association, Kathua with JKESL, marking another significant step towards strengthening unity within the Ex-Servicemen fraternity.
Established in 1951, JKESL has been working relentlessly for the welfare, rehabilitation and resettlement of Ex-Servicemen (ESM), Veer Naris and their dependents across Jammu & Kashmir. JKESL is affiliated with the Indian Ex-Services League (IESL), the premier national veterans’ organisation recognised by the Ministry of Defence, Government of India under an Act of Parliament, 1980.
With a well-established organisational structure extending across all districts of Jammu & Kashmir through elected District and Tehsil Presidents, JKESL is supported by a dedicated network of approximately 20,000 volunteer Ex-Servicemen committed to serving the veterans’ community.
Over the years, several unrecognised and unregistered Ex-Servicemen groups have been functioning independently in different parts of Jammu & Kashmir for the welfare of veterans. JKESL has consistently appealed to these organisations to come together under one umbrella, setting aside differences and collectively working towards the larger interests of the Ex-Servicemen fraternity.
Responding positively to this call, J&K Ex-Services Welfare Association, Kathua has formally expressed its willingness to join hands with JKESL. A merger ceremony was organised at Kathua on 27 Jun 2026 in the presence of Additional Deputy Commissioner Kathua. The event witnessed enthusiastic participation of nearly 300 Ex-Servicemen representing both JKESL and J&K Ex-Services Welfare Association, Kathua.
The merger reflects a shared commitment towards unity, stronger representation and enhanced welfare initiatives for veterans, Veer Naris and their families throughout the Union Territory.
JKESL once again appeals to all other Ex-Servicemen organisations and groups functioning across Jammu & Kashmir to join the common platform and work collectively under the banner of JKESL in the larger interest of the entire Ex-Servicemen fraternity.
“Unity among veterans is the key to ensuring stronger representation, better welfare measures and a collective voice for all Ex-Servicemen, Veer Naris and their dependents.”