Defence Minister Doubles Financial Assistance for Ex-Servicemen and Dependents
Increased Penury, Education, and Marriage Grants Strengthen Support for Veterans and Their Families
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a significant increase in financial assistance for ex-servicemen (ESM) and their dependents under various welfare schemes run by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board. The move aims to provide stronger social security support for veterans and their families, especially those from lower-income groups.
The most notable change is a 100 percent hike in the Penury Grant, which has been doubled from Rs 4,000 to Rs 8,000 per month for each beneficiary. This grant offers lifelong support to elderly ex-servicemen and widows above 65 years of age who do not receive a pension and have no regular income. This enhancement is expected to provide much-needed relief and financial stability to vulnerable sections of the veteran community.
Additionally, the Education Grant has been increased from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 per month for up to two dependent children per family. This assistance is available for children studying from Class I up to graduation, as well as for widows pursuing a two-year postgraduate course. This boost reflects the government’s focus on encouraging education among the families of ex-servicemen and ensuring better opportunities for the next generation.
The Marriage Grant has also been doubled, from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000 per beneficiary. This grant applies to the marriages of up to two daughters of ex-servicemen and for widow remarriage, provided the marriage takes place after the issuance of this order. This increase aims to ease the financial burden of marriage expenses on the families of veterans.
These revised rates will apply to applications submitted from November 1, 2025, onwards. The annual financial impact of these enhanced benefits is estimated to be around Rs 257 crore, which will be funded from the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF), specifically through the Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund, a segment of the AFFDF.
The Defence Ministry’s announcement underscores the government’s ongoing commitment to honouring the sacrifices and service of ex-servicemen. By strengthening the social security net for non-pensioner veterans, widows, and dependents, the government is ensuring that those who served the nation continue to receive support and respect in their post-service lives.