Help & Serve

03/04/2026

When a Phone Call Becomes Lifeline – 7 Years of Help and Serve”

In the Armed Forces, we are taught one thing above all:

Never leave your own behind.

That spirit does not end with retirement.
It lives on—in quiet acts of support, in unseen efforts, and in the willingness to stand by one another, no matter where we are.

When I retired, I realised that the 'Connect of the Uniform' was magical. Two unknown people immediately become friends when they come to know they are 'fauji'. There is a lot of mutual trust and faith in the Armed Forces Community. Therefore, it is very easy to help and serve each other.

Based on this fact, I founded 'Help and Serve Public Charitable Trust' on 03 April 2019.

It had a simple vision:

To create a trusted platform where members of the Armed Forces fraternity—serving, retired, and their families—can connect and help each other.

Today, that vision continues to unfold through real stories. Stories that remind us that even the smallest effort can change a life.

🪖 A Phone Call That Saved a Life

An army widow in Hyderabad faced every parent’s worst nightmare.

Her young son had suffered a severe accident and required urgent surgery. In that moment of crisis, she discovered that his name was missing from the ECHS records. Without correction, she could not access medical support.

The records office was far away, in some other state. Time was running out. The system seemed impossible to navigate.

That is when she reached out.

Through Help and Serve, a few veterans stepped in.
They made calls. Found the right contact. Spoke officer to officer. Sent the required documents.

Within 24 hours, the correction was processed.

The surgery could go ahead.

For the family, it was nothing short of a miracle.
For those who helped, it was just a few minutes of effort.

But that is the power of connection.

🤝 When Distance Did Not Matter

During the COVID lockdown, many serving officers were posted far from home, worried about their elderly parents.

Movement was restricted. Help seemed out of reach.

Through this platform, local veterans in Secunderabad stepped forward—arranging medicines, groceries, and essential support.

No formal system. No paperwork.

Just people helping their own.

📄 Six Days Instead of Ten Months

A veteran struggled for over ten months to correct a pension-related error.

Despite repeated efforts, the issue remained unresolved.

Finally, he approached Help and Serve.

There was officer to officer connect.

Within six days, the matter was taken up with the concerned authorities and resolved.

A problem that lingered for months…
was solved in less than a week.

🎗️ A Widow’s Silent Struggle

In another instance, a soldier’s widow was unable to connect with her Regimental Association for financial assistance.

The request had simply not reached the right person.

Once again, a few calls were made. The correct contact was established.

Action was taken immediately.

The assistance was released within days.

A small effort…
but a huge relief for the family.

🌟 The Larger Message

These are not extraordinary acts.

They are simple gestures—
a phone call, a message, a connection.

But when backed by trust, shared experience, and a sense of belonging, they become powerful.

This is what makes the Armed Forces fraternity unique.

And this is what Help and Serve seeks to preserve and strengthen.

🌐 A Platform Built on Trust

www.helpandserve.in is not just a website.

It is:

A mutual help network
A trusted space for guidance and support
A community that understands your journey
Open to:

Army, Navy, and Air Force
Serving personnel and veterans
Spouses and children
Across India and the globe
It is:

Free of cost
Safe and secure
Run by veterans
🤝 An Invitation

On the occasion of completing 7 years of service, we invite you:

Not just to join a platform,
but to be part of a mission.

A mission where:

Help is just a call away
No family feels helpless
And our bond continues beyond uniform
You may seek help.
You may offer help.
Or simply stay connected.

Because Service Never Ends

The uniform may come off,
but the spirit of service does not.

Sometimes, all it takes…
is one phone call.

Join us: www.helpandserve.in

Maj Gen K Eswaran, VSM (Retd)
Founder
Help and Serve Public Charitable Trust

Jai Hind
https://helpandserveindia.blogspot.com/2026/04/when-phone-call-becomes-lifeline-7.html

20/09/2025

Dear all,

I am happy to announce the launch of the first book of my life.
The same was done at Shirdi Sai Baba Temple today, on 20 Sept 2025.

I had an epiphany when I went last year to write a book for Young Army Officers.
Finally, my effort of one year has borne fruits.

*Making of a Good Army Officer*

Finally, A Mentor-Book for young Army Officers.
From YO to CO.

Army Life is all about Relationships and values. One who masters that, has a smooth sail. The book talks about how to go about your work, Managing relationships with your Seniors, Juniors and Colleagues. And most Importantly, how to manage your own self?
The author has very creatively explained how to control the naughty Mind and become lucky.

One only wishes that such a book was there earlier, which could have helped a person wade through the tough Army life.

There is special feature on 'Tips to Command a unit Successfully'.

It has been written in a simple fauji language with plenty of pictures, stories and anecdotes.
It is an excellent quality print with about 200 pages and a handy size of 8.5x5.5 inches.

The entire royalty of the book is dedicated to Shri Saibaba Sansthan Trust.

Best wishes and regards,
Maj Gen K Eswaran, VSM (Retd)
Founder
Help and Serve Public Charitable Trust

The book is available on Amazon.
https://www.amazon.in/gp/product/B0FQV5825X

For bulk orders and hard bound copy , contact:
Sabre & Quill
BOOKMART DISTRIBUTORS
WhatsApp no: 8810536393, 9810700039

[email protected]

🙏🙏🙏📚✒️🇮🇳

Download the free Kindle app and start reading Kindle books instantly on your smartphone, tablet or computer – no Kindle device required.

15/08/2025

Doordarshan TV program of Interview with Maj Gen K Eswaran, VSM.
Interesting story of struggles in life from the school days and during service.
Important lessons for the youth of India.
“Every day Indian Army Soldiers are making sacrifices to keep our Country safe. The least we can do is to Become worthy of that sacrifice.”
What is to be done?
“Let us not do anything that is not in the interest of our society or the country. If we keep the benefit of our Nation in our mind, then that would ensure that the sacrifices of the soldiers do not go in Vain.”

Connect Us 👇📺🔴► Doordarshan OTT App (WAVES) Download now:📲Android: https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=com.prasarb...

16/05/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SOCIAL SERVICE- COL ARUN MOGHE

Retired but Not Tired

Commissioned in the Corps of Engineers in December 1962, Col Arun Moghe was engaged in the 1965 war in the Lahore sector. He was also in the 1971 war during the liberation of Bangladesh and was in fact one of the first ones to be in Dhaka. Later, he was on the staff of Advance Eastern Command HQ, at Dhaka. He was also part of IPKF in Sri Lanka.
He has been honoured with the COAS Commendation Card twice -- for Flood relief operations in Bihar and Special welfare measures taken for the ex-servicemen.
He took PMR in 1991 to head the Queen Mary’s Technical Institute for Rehabilitation of Disabled soldiers. He was the Executive Director of the QMTI for nine years during which the Institute was awarded by the Govt. of India for outstanding work in rehab of the disabled Soldiers. The Institute also received the FICCI Award 1997 for outstanding work in the rehabilitation of the disabled. He was simultaneously associated with the Paraplegic Rehab Center and the Cheshire Home for the Spastic Children, in Kirkee, Pune.

He also served as CEO of the International Leprosy Union which received the WHO’s Sasakawa Memorial Award for excellent work in eradication of leprosy.
He attended a programme on Social Gerontology at the UN Institute on Ageing, Malta and was the CEO the International Longevity Center (India). He compiled over 2000 Aids of Daily Living (ADL) after an extensive study of material available all over the world. A Book on the same was published by the International Longevity Center, (India) and was released at the hands of the then Minister – Ms Meira Kumar, Minister for Social Justice, Government of India.

On being selected as the CEO of APARNA Novel Society for Welfare and Research (ANSWER) he came to Hyderabad and settled there. ANSWER is an NGO providing complete wherewithal to orphans and semi orphans. He headed this for 16 years and continues to be associated with it as an Advisor. During this period both he and his wife, really looked after the poor children.
In 2013, he had a major role in conceptualizing the idea of forming of a platform named the Defence Veterans Volunteer Group, Hyderabad (DVVGH) which motivates veterans to undertake voluntary work to help other veterans. This has grown over the years and has over 400 + members. This unique group has become a central help point for veterans. There is no membership fee and the group works as a cashless organization.
The DVVGH has established Local Support Groups particularly in colonies where there are large number of veterans. The work of the Local support groups is greatly valued and appreciated by non-ESM too.
Col Arun Moghe has worked continuously for 63 years! He always had a passion for serving others selflessly, which he continues to do so even now at the ripe old age of 85. His wife- Mohini has been with him all along in the social journey.

Blog:

Retired but Not Tired Commissioned in the Corps of Engineers in December 1962, Col Arun Moghe was engaged in the 1965 war ...

24/04/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SOCIAL SERVICE- NAIK LINGALA JAGAN REDDY

Driven by Passion for Veterans

In a solemn and prestigious ceremony at Secunderabad Cantonment, General Upendra Dwivedi, PVSM, AVSM Chief of the Army Staff (COAS), conferred the Veterans Achievers Award upon distinguished veterans in recognition of their outstanding contributions to society. One of the award recipient, Naik Lingala Jagan Reddy (Retd), has demonstrated exceptional commitment to social service and nation-building beyond military career.

Naik Lingala Jagan Reddy (Retd) has been a driving force in addressing the challenges faced by Ex-Servicemen. His in-depth analysis and unwavering efforts led him to become a founding member of the National Ex-Servicemen Coordination Committee (NExCC), an organization officially recognized by the Government of India. Due to his hard work and dedication, he has risen to the position of National Chairman of NExCC, where he continues to advocate for the welfare of veterans.

Naik Reddy along with some other ESMs, have been doing selfless service to the veterans and widows since 1982 for the last about 43 years. He travels across the country meeting defence officials in Delhi, interacting at PCDA Allahabad, meeting the Defence Advisors of the public and private banks, visiting various record offices etc. This involves expenditure which is borne by him most of time except for some sponsored visits. But most importantly it is the physical effort of running around for others. He is about 82 years young now. He has been into it for the last four decades. It is the passion to serve his brethren that drives him effortlessly. In spite of his tough built, he is very soft spoken and is able to convince the officials due to his sincerity. He is very honest in his approach and does not expect anything from anyone for all the services. He is certainly a source of inspiration for the Armed Forces Community.

Recommended by Maj Gen K Eswaran
Veteran
Ex-CDBA of SBI

Driven by Passion for Veterans In a solemn and prestigious ceremony at Secunderaba...

10/04/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SOCIAL SERVICE

Friend in Need is a Friend Indeed


Colonel Jaswant Singh Chandel, VSM, is a remarkable individual whose life story reflects the true essence of service, sacrifice, and compassion. A proud Army veteran, he dedicated 40 years of his life to the service of the nation. Throughout his distinguished military career, he exemplified courage, discipline, and an unwavering commitment to duty. Upon retiring from active service, Colonel Chandel returned to his roots to Village Kalol, District Bilaspur (HP), choosing a life of selfless service to others that has since touched countless lives.
In the quiet serenity of his village, he has become a beacon of hope for those in need. In the memory of his ‘Late Daughter Manjusha’, who tragically passed away at a young age, he has channelled his grief into a powerful force for good. Her untimely departure became the catalyst for his deep involvement in community welfare, and he decided to dedicate his post-military years to giving back in ways that would honour her legacy.
Over the years, He has built a reputation as a tireless advocate for those in need, providing financial support to countless individuals in his community. Whether it’s covering medical expenses for those who cannot afford treatment, providing financial aid for children to attend school, or offering assistance for general well-being, he is always there with a helping hand. His mission is simple: no one should suffer due to financial hardship when help is available, and he has made it his life’s work to ensure that this truth is a reality for all. And, he is doing all this on his personal steam ie. from the personal savings and the pension, he receives.
In addition to the financial aid, he is also a skilled homeopath. Drawing from years of self-study and a genuine desire to assist those in need, he began offering free consultations to villagers, treating them with natural remedies and providing free medicines. His practice quickly gained the trust of his community, as people sought him out not only for his expertise but for the kindness and compassion with which he delivered his care. His patients know that they are in the hands of someone who genuinely cares for their well-being, and he has brought relief to many who would otherwise have had little access to medical care. He is also a reputed poet of the area.
What makes Colonel Chandel’s work even more extraordinary is that he does all of this with a heart full of selflessness. Despite the physical and emotional challenges of his work, he never seeks recognition, and his only motivation is to ease the suffering of others. His efforts have been entirely driven by the desire to honour the memory of his daughter, whose spirit lives on in the countless lives he has touched.
In every corner of his village, he is known as a man of integrity, generosity, and compassion. His commitment to social service has transformed his community, creating a culture of kindness and support that will likely outlive him. By providing a role model for others, he inspires the next generation to follow in his footsteps and continue the work he has started.
His legacy of service, love, and compassion will undoubtedly continue to inspire many, long after his time. His life is a testament to the power of giving, and to the idea that even in the face of personal loss, one can choose to create a better world for others.

Recommended by Col Nitin Bhatnagar.

Send a message to learn more

09/04/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SOCIAL SERVICE

Passionate care of Veterans

A veteran officer of rare dedication and compassion, Col G S Mann (Retd) epitomizes the true spirit of selfless service and leadership beyond the uniform. Post retirement, he took on the significant responsibility of managing 56 guest rooms and an old age home in October 2018, and has since worked tirelessly—day and night—in the service of the defence fraternity.

With unmatched sincerity and a never-say-no attitude, Col Mann has single-handedly overseen the smooth functioning of all guest room operations. Whether for official visits, medical emergencies, or family needs, he ensures that every request is fulfilled—even going the extra mile to arrange accommodation at alternative locations when needed. Under his stewardship, the guest rooms have seen constant upgrades, with high standards of cleanliness and comfort. The well-manicured gardens, adorned with award-winning flower pots, reflect his aesthetic sense and attention to detail.

His concern and care extend wholeheartedly to the 69 elderly residents, aged between 70 and 96, in the old age home. With immense patience, empathy, and compassion, Col Mann ensures their holistic well-being—from nutritious meals and personal care to sanitation, hygiene, and room maintenance. He personally manages hospital appointments, admissions, lab tests, and discharges, never leaving the elders alone in times of crisis. His presence during their final journey—organizing dignified last rites—is a testament to his unwavering commitment.

The staff under him, over 70 in number, look up to him as a father figure and mentor, as he nurtures a spirit of unity and warmth. The elders have become his extended family, showering him with love and blessings that speak volumes of the deep bonds he has fostered.

A passionate marathon runner, Col Mann remains physically fit, setting an inspiring example of vitality and dedication. His exemplary service to the defence society is far beyond the call of duty. He is not just a caretaker—but a guardian, a friend, and a symbol of unwavering devotion.

Col G S Mann is truly a role model—a living embodiment of the finest values of the Armed Forces, deserving of the highest accolades and recognition at a national level.
Col G S Mann (Retd) is based out of Chandigarh.

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04/04/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SERVICE BY FAUJIS: COL PS BINDRA
A Champion of Environmental Change

Colonel PS Bindra, a dynamic leader and a relentless force in environmental conservation, serves as the Brand Ambassador of Swachh Bharat Abhiyan in Karnal, Haryana. His commitment to sustainable development has made a significant impact on waste management, green initiatives, and clean energy production. An alumnus of UP Sainik School, Lucknow, Col Bindra is an engine of power, driven by full "josh" in his mission to bring transformation through Parivartan and BluVentr.
One of his ground breaking initiatives is the Seed Ball Revolution in schools across Karnal and Pilibhit, where students actively participate in creating and dispersing seed balls, contributing to reforestation efforts. His innovative approach has instilled environmental responsibility among young minds and inspired numerous institutions to adopt similar projects.
Taking his vision further, Col Bindra has now initiated a biogas plant in Gaushala, Phoosgarh, Karnal, aimed at utilizing cattle waste for energy production and environmental conservation. This project not only mitigates methane emissions but also provides a sustainable energy source, reinforcing his commitment to green solutions.
A Lifetime of Service: From Army to Environmental Leadership
Col PS Bindra’s journey in environmental activism began during his UN mission in Somalia (1993) when he witnessed extreme poverty and hunger. With a compassionate approach, he helped the poor by organizing PET bottle collection along the supply routes. This simple yet effective system not only reduced waste but also provided a livelihood to struggling communities.
After his return to India, his mission never stopped. Over the decades, he has initiated practical, large-scale environmental projects across various states, significantly impacting waste management and green energy production. His latest achievement in Pilibhit includes collecting 700 tonnes of paddy stubble from 1,000 acres a potential pollutant that farmers would have otherwise burned, harming the environment. Instead, he is now converting this agricultural waste mixed with sugarcane residue ( Maili)into eco-friendly coal.
For his exceptional contributions, Col Bindra was honoured with the Veterans Achiever Award in Dehradun by the Chief of Army Staff in December last year. His work has been widely recognized in publications like The Times of India and various Hindi newspapers since 1993, highlighting his consistent efforts in environmental conservation and community welfare.
Through vision, determination, and relentless action, Col PS Bindra continues to drive meaningful change, proving that one man’s mission can create a sustainable, greener future for all.

A Champion of Environmental Change Colonel PS Bindra, a dynamic leader and a relentless force in environmental conservation, serves ...

03/04/2025

03 April 2019 - 03 April 2025

HONOURING FAUJIS DOING SELFLESS SOCIAL SERVICE TO SOCIETY

Inspiring Future generations!

On the occasion of the sixth anniversary, Help and Serve Public Charitable Trust is launching a new program of Honouring the Faujis who are doing Selfless Social Service and giving back to the society. This includes veterans and spouses of Army, Navy, Air Force. The details will be published on the website - www.helpandserve.in ,a blog, Facebook and LinkedIn pages of the website.
This would be followed by an interview*.

There are many people who are doing their best but go unrecognized.
This is a tribute to the unsung warriors and motivation for younger generations.

In case YOU or someone you know, would like to publish, please send a one page write up to

[email protected]

Best wishes and regards

Maj Gen K Eswaran, VSM
Veteran
Founder
Help and Serve Public Charitable Trust (Regd)
Secunderabad.
Email: [email protected] , Website: www.helpandserve.in

Follow us on Face book and LinkedIn
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/me/
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/help-and-serve-charitable-trust-9789a3295

*The decision of the panel of judges will be final.
You have really not lived if you have not helped someone who cannot repay you

Experience: Help and Serve Public Charitable trust · Location: Hyderabad · 10 connections on LinkedIn. View HELP AND SERVE CHARITABLE TRUST’s profile on LinkedIn, a professional community of 1 billion members.

31/03/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SERVICE BY FAUJIS-COL & MRS GHUMMAN

CHAMPION OF PATRIOTISM IN OLIVE GREEN

Lt. Col. Krishan Lal Ghumman’s 's life was a shining example of service and sacrifice. Commissioned on March 14, 1971, he joined the 7 Punjab regiment/8 Mechanized Regiment, and had the privilege of serving his nation during the operations. As a war-wounded veteran of the 1971 war, he embodied the spirit of service and sacrifice.
After retiring from the army, Lt. Col. Krishan Lal founded Mothers' International Public School in Mawana, Meerut, driven by a vision to serve the nation through education. His school was built on the ethos of love for the underprivileged and respect for humanity. Though his life was cut short by the COVID-19 pandemic, his legacy lives on.
His wife, Mrs. Sarabjit Ghumman, a dedicated teacher of Physics and Chemistry at the prestigious Sophia Girls' School, Meerut Cantt. widely acclaimed as the best school of not only Meerut but also Western U.P. With a teaching career spanning 34 years, she earned the appreciation of students, staff, and management. Despite her illustrious career, she chose to dedicate her life to her husband's mission, selflessly imparting quality education to the suburbs of Meerut in Mawana.
Mrs. Ghumman's commitment to her husband's legacy is a testament to their shared values of service, sacrifice, and nation-building. Her decision to serve the nation, despite her children living in London, is a true reflection of the spirit of a dedicated Army officer's wife.

We are honoured to have people like Col and Mrs Ghumman amongst in the Armed Forces Community. They strongly believe in nurturing integrity, discipline and building character to shape destinies.

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31/03/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SERVICE BY FAUJIS- COL RATHORE

Empowering Mewar's Youth: A Journey of Mentorship and Success

"It all began nine years ago when I superannuated. I made a conscious decision to decline re-employment and resisted the temptation of a second stint in the corporate world. My reasons were deeply personal. Having served as the Group Commander of NCC Group Udaipur, in my last posting, I was reluctant to leave Udaipur again. This marked the beginning of a new chapter in my life."
"During my tenure as Group Commander, I noticed that very few NCC cadets from Rajasthan Directorate were able to clear the NCC special entry. I took it upon myself to mentor and groom young aspirants from the Mewar region. Initially, a few students approached me, and soon, a customized coaching program was developed.
Interacting with the cadets revealed that traditional 14-day coaching capsules offered by professional academies wouldn't suffice. These students, hailing from humble backgrounds, required extended practice sessions to enhance their communication skills, English language proficiency, and confidence.
To address this, I evolved a module offering unlimited coaching days, tailored to each student's availability and SSB schedules. This approach has yielded impressive results:
- 285 students enrolled and completed the course over the past 9 years.
- 104 students achieved success at SSB, representing a 36% success rate.
- 46 students have been commissioned, 14 are undergoing training, and 10 are awaiting induction into various training academies.
- 17 students are wards of defense personnel.
- In service entry, 8 students were recommended, with 3 commissioned, 2 as SCO, and 1 through ACC. 5 are currently training at ACC.
Notably, many students who didn't clear SSB have been successfully placed in other organizations. This initiative represents my humble effort to give back to society by empowering Mewar's youth." A decade of dedication.

Col Manohar Singh Rathore.
Email: [email protected]

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31/03/2025

HONOUR BOARD: SELFLESS SERVICE BY FAUJIS

SEEKING SOLACE IN SERVING

Col Padmanabhan P, a native of Kannur was commissioned into Regiment of Artillery on 13 Dec 1980 from Indian Military Academy.
He is a native of Kannur, Kerala. After retirement from the Army, he joined LIONS INTERNATIONAL, and was actively involved in organising social services for the underprivileged at various capacities.
As an Additional Cabinet Secretary (Diabetes), he managed Rs 30 Lakh for creating a mobile Retinopathy vehicle to conduct free diagnosis of 3.17 lakh poor patients suffering from Diabetic Retinopathy within five Revenue Districts of Malabar.
He managed to procure CSR fund worth more than Rs 17 lakhs to procure CT SCAN machine for District Hospital Kannur, made functional with the support of L& T Infotech Hyderabad.
He managed to purchase six seaters electric buggy for MALABAR CANCER HOSPITAL CENTRE Thalassery (Kannur) for the conveyance of very poor patients and by standers within the hospital premises.
Other Signature projects organised are-
• Arranging food for 12 Orphanages,
• Sponsoring 20 Diabetic patients for dialysis for sixty-one months at District Hospital Kannur,
• Organising flight for 10 differently abled students of Ashraya special school Kannur and their parents from Kannur to Trivandrum and back,
• Arranging OXYGEN PLANT SYSTEM for the 15 terminally ill Patients of AVE MARIA PALLIATIVE CARE CENTRE Mangalore.
• Arranging INDUSTRIAL DRIER MACHINE for the Ave Maria Palliative Care Centre Mangalore,
• Distributing electric wheel chair to a six-year-old students of CAP SPECIAL SCHOOL KANNUR,
• Distributing 80 bed sheets to AMLA BHAWAN ORPHANAGE, Kannur.

To tap CSR fund to channelize more services to the underprivileged, he registered DHARMA CHARITABLE TRUST and intends to dedicate himself to help the needy society.

We are indeed honoured to have such people amongst the Armed Forces Community.

Col Padmanabhan P.
Email: [email protected]

Send a message to learn more