In an inspiring gesture of patriotism, ex-soldier Pravin Santosh Patil, a resident of Shivrana Nagar in Pimprala, Jalgaon, donated Rs 1.02 lakh—the entire amount received as gifts during his daughter’s engagement ceremony—to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund.
The engagement of Patil’s daughter, Priyanka, was held on Sunday, May 11. Instead of using the monetary gifts for personal celebrations, Patil chose to contribute the entire sum to the fund, which supports the welfare of serving and retired personnel of the armed forces and their families. His act has been hailed as a role model of continuing national service beyond the uniform.
“This decision is a reflection of how ordinary citizens can meaningfully participate in honouring the sacrifices made by our soldiers,” said District Soldier Welfare Officer Major (Retd.) Nilesh Prakash Patil, who presented a formal acknowledgement and receipt to the Patil family on behalf of the department. He also conveyed his best wishes to the newly engaged couple and urged the public to contribute to the Flag Day Fund according to their means.
The initiative has drawn praise from various quarters, with Guardian Minister Gulabrao Patil and District Collector Ayush Prasad congratulating the family for their patriotic commitment. The Patils’ gesture, they said, sends a strong message that moments of personal happiness can also serve a larger national cause.
By dedicating this special occasion to the country’s soldiers, the Patil family has shown how the spirit of service can be passed down through generations, not only by wearing the uniform but by living its values every day.
