The Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR), in collaboration with the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD), successfully conducted an exclusive Job Fair on June 20, 2025, in New Delhi, aimed at retired and retiring personnel from the Armed Forces. This strategic initiative aims to facilitate the seamless transition of military officers from active service to impactful second careers in the civilian domain.
Hosted in collaboration with www.esmhire.com, the dedicated employment portal for Ex-Servicemen, the event witnessed significant participation. Over 500 officers from the Tri-Services—Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force—registered through the portal, demonstrating their intention to pursue leadership roles in the corporate sector upon retirement or impending superannuation.
Of the 41 registered employers, 25 reputed national and multinational companies were present at the venue, collectively offering over 100 job vacancies. These roles spanned mid-to-senior management levels, with positions including but not limited to Project Directors, Strategic Planners, Operations Managers, and Administrative Heads. Shortlisted candidates will undergo further evaluation and interviews, with final placements expected in the coming weeks.
Exclusive Job Fair: Strategically Important To Military-Corporate Integration
The exclusive Job Fair provided a dynamic interface for retired and retiring officers to connect with prominent corporate recruiters. This convergence enabled military professionals to leverage their unique skill sets—leadership, logistics coordination, strategic planning, and crisis management—acquired during years of commissioned service. For the participating corporations, this was an opportunity to tap into a highly disciplined, mission-oriented talent pool that brings unmatched integrity and operational excellence to the boardroom.
This initiative aligns with India’s long-term vision to ensure that ex-servicemen remain economically productive, contributing to national development post-retirement. For employers, the value proposition lies in the unparalleled experience these officers bring from high-pressure environments, making them ideal candidates for leadership and critical decision-making roles.
Exclusive Job Fair Attended By Defence and Industry Leadership
The event was graced by key dignitaries and stakeholders from the defense and corporate sectors. Dr. Niten Chandra, Secretary (Ex-Servicemen Welfare), addressed the gathering and emphasized the Government’s commitment to the welfare and reintegration of veterans into civilian life. Lt Gen Bhavnish Kumar, General Officer Commanding, Delhi Area, and Maj Gen SBK Singh, Director General Resettlement, reaffirmed the Armed Forces’ focus on structured resettlement and career support for retiring personnel.
The corporate sector was represented by Mr. Ramesh K, Director General of the Society of Indian Defence Manufacturers (SIDM), who reiterated the value ex-servicemen bring to the private sector. Other eminent attendees included Shri Ajay Kumar, Joint Secretary, DESW, and Brig DS Basera, Secretary, Kendriya Sainik Board, who expressed confidence in the capabilities of India’s military veterans to adapt and excel across diverse sectors.
The DGR Exclusive Job Fair: A Platform for Post-Retirement Employment
The DGR Job Fair stands as a testament to the Government’s ongoing efforts to empower ex-servicemen with relevant employment opportunities. Through structured engagements with the corporate world, the initiative bridges the gap between military experience and civilian industry demand. The DGR, along with departments like the Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), has made significant waves in enhancing the quality of life of retired military personnel. Just last year, the DESW had undertaken a number of initiatives as per the ‘Special campaign for Disposal of Pending matters’ (SCDPM 4.0) to redress military personnel grievances.
The ensuing exclusive job fair, combined with strategic initiatives, shows the foresight of the country when it comes to caring for its armed forces and the brave men and women who selflessly serve the nation.
DGR Job Fair, A Strategic Win-Win for Nation-Building
The Job Fair concluded on a high note, with active engagements and encouraging feedback from both veterans and corporate recruiters. As India continues to strengthen its civil-military fusion, such initiatives will remain crucial in providing dignified and strategic post-retirement roles for our nation’s defenders.
By institutionalizing such platforms, the DGR not only honors the service of Armed Forces personnel but also ensures that their leadership potential continues to contribute meaningfully to the country’s socio-economic fabric.
