In a significant step to bolster welfare measures for armed forces veterans, the Ministry of Defence has announced a doubling of the financial aid provided to veterans who are not entitled to a pension. The decision is expected to directly benefit thousands of former soldiers across India, providing much-needed financial relief.
The enhanced assistance comes under the “One Rank, One Pension” framework and other veteran welfare schemes, targeting those who retired before qualifying for standard pension benefits. Under the new provisions, eligible veterans will now receive double the earlier monetary support, helping them meet daily expenses and medical needs.
Officials highlighted that the move is part of a broader government initiative to recognize the contributions of armed forces personnel and ensure they receive dignified support after their service. This policy revision is also expected to strengthen morale among serving personnel, knowing that their welfare remains a priority even after retirement.
Veteran associations have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a long-awaited decision that addresses long-standing financial challenges faced by retired soldiers. They noted that while pension benefits have been available to some, a large section of veterans had remained outside the pension net, making this initiative crucial for their well-being.
The Ministry of Defence continues to emphasize that supporting veterans is not only a matter of policy but also a moral obligation to those who have dedicated their lives to safeguarding the nation.