State Government strengthens welfare support for ex-servicemen and their families

Shimla, Sept. 06

In Himachal Pradesh, the spirit of serving the nation is deeply rooted in the state’s culture and identity. For generations, families across the hills have chosen a life of service and duty. They have carried forward the values of courage, discipline and dedication. In every part of the state, joining the armed forces is not just a career choice. It is a proud part of Himachal’s heritage.

This proud tradition is reflected not only in the number of people from Himachal who serve in the armed forces, but also in their courage and sacrifice. The state has received 1,252 gallantry awards. These include the Param Vir Chakra awarded to Major Somnath Sharma of Kangra, India’s first recipient of the country’s highest military honour.

Himachal’s proud list of gallantry awards includes four Param Vir Chakras, two Ashoka Chakras, ten Maha Vir Chakras, 25 Kirti Chakras, 58 Vir Chakras, 102 Shaurya Chakras and 1,051 other Army Medals.

Such a proud record of bravery also brings a responsibility to support those who have served the nation. Under the leadership of Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, the present state government is working to strengthen this bond. The focus is on supporting ex-servicemen, their families and the families of those who made the ultimate sacrifice.

One of the key areas of support is employment. The state provides 15 percent reservation for ex-servicemen in Class-I, Class-II, Class-III and Class-IV government posts. A Special Employment Cell has also been set up under the Sainik Welfare Department. It helps ex-servicemen find suitable employment and use their military experience, discipline and leadership skills in a second career.

For families who have made the greatest sacrifice, the government provides additional support. War widows and their families receive financial assistance for important needs. This includes Rs. 50,000 for the marriage of a war widow’s daughter.

The state also supports members of the older military community. Non-pensioner ex-servicemen of the First and Second World Wars receive an old-age pension of Rs. 10,000 per month, while their widows receive Rs. 5,000 per month. Parents whose sons served during the Emergency receive Rs. 7,000 every year.

Support is also provided for healthcare and rehabilitation. Eligible disabled soldiers from Himachal who are living at the Paraplegic Rehabilitation Centres at SAS Nagar, Mohali and Kirkee, Pune receive Rs. 1 lakh per person every year.

Families who suddenly lose a serving soldier also receive financial assistance. The State Flag Day Fund provides Rs. 15,000 to the next of kin. The State Reconstruction and Rehabilitation Funds also provide financial assistance of up to Rs. 50,000 under different schemes.

Education is another important part of the government’s support for military families. Eligible students pursuing postgraduate studies, polytechnic courses, agriculture, MBBS, engineering and other academic and professional courses receive scholarships ranging from Rs. 500 to Rs. 1,000 per month.

By supporting education, the government is helping the children and younger members of military families build a better future. It is helping turn their families’ proud tradition of service into new opportunities.