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Defence Ministry Implements 100% Hike in Financial Aid for Ex-Servicemen

The Ministry of Defence has implemented a 100 per cent increase in financial assistance for ex-servicemen and their dependents under key welfare schemes. The hike, approved earlier by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, includes a doubling of the Penury Grant to provide sustained support for aged, non-pensioner veterans and widows. The Education Grant and Marriage Grant have also been significantly increased to aid dependent children and daughters. This move strengthens the social security net and reaffirms the government's commitment to honouring veterans' service.

Key Points: 100% Hike in Financial Aid for Ex-Servicemen Implemented

  • 100% hike in financial assistance implemented
  • Penury Grant doubled to Rs 8,000/month
  • Education Grant raised to Rs 2,000/month per child
  • Marriage Grant increased to Rs 1 lakh
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100% hike in financial assistance under schemes of Dept of Ex-Servicemen Welfare via Kendriya Sainik Board implemented: MoD

MoD implements 100% increase in Penury, Education & Marriage Grants for ex-servicemen & dependents, reaffirming commitment to veterans.

"reaffirms the Government's commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of the veterans. - Ministry of Defence"

New Delhi, January 10

The Ministry of Defence on Saturday said that the 100 per cent increase in financial assistance announced by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh for ex-servicemen and their dependents has been implemented.

The increased assistance is being provided under schemes implemented by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board.

The MoD added that the decision reaffirms the government's commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of veterans.

In a post on X, MoD said, "A 100% increase in financial assistance for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents under schemes implemented by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through Kendriya Sainik Board reaffirms the Government's commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of the veterans."

Earlier in October 2025, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved a 100 per cent increase in financial assistance for ex-Servicemen (ESM).

The Penury Grant has been doubled from Rs 4,000 to Rs 8,000 per month per beneficiary, providing sustained lifetime support to aged and non-pensioner ESM and their widows above 65 years of age with no regular income, as per the ministry.

The Education Grant has been increased from Rs 1,000 to Rs 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 raised from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000 per beneficiary. Applicable for up to two daughters of ESM and for widow remarriage, for marriages solemnised after issuance of this order.

These schemes are funded through the Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund, which is a subset of the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF).

The decision strengthens the social security net for non-pensioner ESM, widows, and dependents from lower-income groups, reaffirming the Government's commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of the veterans, a prior statement from MoD added

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priyanka N
A very welcome decision. The Penury Grant increase to ₹8000 will be a lifeline for so many aged veterans and widows with no regular income. Our soldiers protect us; it's our duty to ensure they live with dignity afterwards. Well done.
S
Sarah B
As someone married to a service member, this news brings relief. The hike in marriage and education grants is significant. However, I hope the implementation is smooth and reaches everyone eligible without bureaucratic delays. The intent is great, execution is key.
V
Vikram M
Good move, but is it enough with today's inflation? ₹2000 per child for education still seems very low, especially for college. We must keep reviewing these amounts regularly. Still, a step in the right direction to honour our veers.
A
Aman W
Heartening news. My neighbour is a retired non-pensioner soldier and his family struggles. This increased support will make a tangible difference in their lives. More power to the Kendriya Sainik Board for implementing this swiftly.
K
Karthik V
Respectfully, while a 100% hike sounds impressive, we must remember the base was quite low. The real test is ensuring every single beneficiary is aware of the scheme and can access it easily, especially in remote areas. Awareness campaigns are crucial now.

We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.

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