100% hike! Defence Ministry doubles financial assistance for ex-servicemen, their dependents

New Delhi: The Ministry of Defence has implemented a 100% increase in financial assistance for ex-servicemen and their dependents. Key grants have been raised, enhancing social security for lower-income ex-servicemen, widows, and dependents.

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) announced on Saturday, 10 January, that the 100% increase in financial assistance for ex-servicemen (ESM) and their dependents, as declared by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, has now been implemented.

The enhanced assistance has been provided under schemes implemented by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board.

The Ministry said the decision highlights the government’s commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of veterans.

In October last year, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved a 100% increase in financial assistance for ex-servicemen.

What grants have been hiked?

The Penury Grant has been increased from ₹4,000 to ₹8,000 per month for each beneficiary, providing lifetime support to elderly and non-pensioner ex-servicemen and their widows above 65 years who have no regular income.

The Education Grant has been raised from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per month per head for up to two dependent children (Class I to Graduation) or widows pursuing a two-year postgraduate course.

The Marriage Grant has been increased from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per beneficiary. It applies to up to two daughters of ex-servicemen and for widow remarriage, for marriages solemnised after the issuance of this order.

These schemes are financed through the Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund, which is part of the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund.

The decision strengthens the social security safety net for non-pensioner ex-servicemen, widows, and dependents from lower-income groups, reaffirming the government’s commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of veterans.