PANAJI
The function was attended by 1,500 odd Air personnel as well as ex-Air staff.
Ex-Sgt Cota received this prestigious award for displaying great dedication, personal involvement and devotion in assisting and resolving the problems of Air veterans and their families during the period 2015-16. The award consisting of certificate and a badge is considered to be of great honour as only two persons in all of 29 states in India receive this award every year on the AFA Annual Day.
“I am humbled to receive this honour,” said ex-Sgt Cota while receiving this award, adding further, ‘There is lot of scope for each of us to serve the society, our nation and the whole mankind, if only we put a willful step in that direction. One can think of many positive ways to contribute his or her share and thus give back to the society. Even sitting with aged people and offering them a listening ear can serve the purpose.”
The AFA Annual Day programme began with assembly at Amar Jawan Jyoti, India Gate in the morning, followed by wreath laying ceremony. After the assembly, annual general meeting was held where Octogenarians were felicitated. The awards of CAS’ Appreciation to Air veterans are given each year to two persons selected from the 29 states in India.
Ex-Sgt Cota is also the proud recipient of the Goa Government High Achievers Award-2007, which is being given to an ex-serviceman who excels in the civilian life, especially in pursuance of a second career which is not connected to the Air Force.
Born on December 25, 1956 in Goa, Cota joined IAF in August 1975. In 1977, after clearing the PABT he was called for selection at No 4 AF Selection Board, Varanasi, but did not make the grade in the final selection. Whilst in service, he gainfully utilised his spare time to further his academic interest. He successfully completed his MA (Political Science), LLB and MBA.
After retiring on August 31, 1989 on completion of his terms of engagement, he returned to his village Betalbatim in Goa for good. Currently working in a leading company in a private sector in Goa, ex-Sgt Cota has been the founder member of Air Force Association (Goa) and is presently holding the position of general secretary. Instrumental in increasing its membership he also took initiative in resolving the various issues regarding pension, rehabilitation etc of ex-Air staff who have settled in Goa or are working here.
Taking up his own case for exemption of house tax by the panchayat and with the government for exemption from stamp duty/registration charges for acquisition of dwelling unit, he followed up with the State government to implement it for all ex-servicemen. Following this many other states have now extended this concession to their ex-servicemen.
