Defence Ministry Doubles Financial Aid to Non-Pensioner Veterans

In a landmark initiative aimed at strengthening support for ex-servicemen who do not receive pensions, the Indian Ministry of Defence has announced a substantial increase in financial assistance. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved a 100% hike in welfare support for non-pensioner ex-servicemen (ESM) and their families. This move, timed ahead of the festive season, is expected to benefit around 20,000 individuals and will entail an annual expenditure of ₹257 crore for the government.

Defence minister Rajnath Singh. (File / AFP) | Hindustan Times

Understanding Non-Pensioner Ex-Servicemen

Non-pensioner ex-servicemen are personnel who leave the armed forces before completing the tenure required for pension eligibility. Officers retiring before 20 years of service and other ranks leaving before 15 years fall into this category. Many of these individuals face financial difficulties due to the absence of a stable income. By enhancing welfare measures for non-pensioner veterans, the government aims to ensure that those who served the nation are not left unsupported in their later years.

Enhanced Financial Assistance for Veterans

The revised financial aid covers multiple areas of support to address both immediate and long-term needs. The Penury Grant, now doubled from ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 per month for beneficiaries aged 65 and above, provides sustained lifetime assistance to elderly ex-servicemen and their widows who lack regular income.

The Education Grant has also been increased, offering ₹2,000 per month for up to two dependent children pursuing education from Class I up to graduation. Widows pursuing a two-year postgraduate course are also eligible. Additionally, the Marriage Grant has been raised from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per beneficiary, applicable for up to two daughters of an ESM and for widow remarriages conducted after the issuance of the new order.

These measures are administered by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board, reflecting a comprehensive approach to supporting veterans and their families.

Broader Welfare Initiatives

The government has undertaken several other initiatives to improve the welfare of ex-servicemen. The SPARSH (System for Pension Administration Raksha) initiative streamlines pension disbursement and addresses grievances of retired servicemen. Currently, approximately 32.5 lakh former servicemen are covered under SPARSH, with efforts ongoing to reach the remaining beneficiaries.

In addition, collaborations between banks and defence organizations have led to the establishment of centres that provide assistance with banking, pension-related issues, and documentation services. These centres also offer skill development and financial literacy programs to help veterans manage their finances effectively, ensuring both immediate relief and long-term empowerment.

The MGMM Outlook

The recent decision by the Indian Ministry of Defence to double financial assistance for non-pensioner ex-servicemen marks a significant step in acknowledging the sacrifices of those who served the nation but do not receive pensions. By raising the Penury Grant to ₹8,000 per month for elderly veterans and widows, increasing the Education Grant for dependent children, and doubling the Marriage Grant, the government has provided much-needed financial security to thousands of families. These measures are especially crucial for personnel who retired before completing the required tenure for pensions, ensuring that their years of service are recognized and their well-being safeguarded.

Beyond monetary support, the government’s broader welfare initiatives reflect a comprehensive approach to veteran care. Programs like SPARSH streamline pension administration and grievance redressal, while partnerships with banks and defence organizations provide essential assistance in documentation, financial literacy, and skill development. Together, these efforts not only address immediate needs but also empower ex-servicemen to manage their resources effectively, reinforcing the nation’s commitment to those who have dedicated their lives to its service.

(Sources: Hindustan Times, CNBC TV18, The Hindu)