India Implements 100% Hike in Financial Assistance for Ex-Servicemen Welfare Schemes
The Ministry of Defence has implemented a 100% increase in financial assistance for ex-servicemen and dependants under welfare schemes run by the Kendriya Sainik Board. The enhancement doubles the Penury Grant to ₹8,000 monthly, increases Education Grants to ₹2,000 per child monthly, and raises Marriage Grants to ₹1,00,000 per beneficiary, strengthening social security for veteran families.
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The Ministry of Defence has confirmed the implementation of a 100% increase in financial assistance for ex-servicemen and their dependants, marking a significant enhancement in veteran welfare support. The enhanced benefits are being extended under schemes administered by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board, following approval by Defence Minister Rajnath Singh in October 2025.
Enhanced Financial Support Structure
The revised welfare framework introduces substantial improvements across three key assistance categories. The changes represent the government's commitment to strengthening social security for non-pensioner ex-servicemen, widows, and dependants from lower-income groups.
| Grant Type: | Previous Amount | Enhanced Amount | Beneficiary Details |
|---|---|---|---|
| Penury Grant: | ₹4,000 per month | ₹8,000 per month | Aged non-pensioner ESM and widows above 65 years |
| Education Grant: | ₹1,000 per month | ₹2,000 per month | Per child for up to two dependent children |
| Marriage Grant: | ₹50,000 | ₹1,00,000 | Per beneficiary for up to two daughters |
Comprehensive Coverage Details
The Penury Grant enhancement provides lifelong support to aged, non-pensioner ex-servicemen and their widows above 65 years of age who have no regular source of income. This monthly assistance has been doubled to ensure better financial security for the most vulnerable veteran families.
The Education Grant increase covers studies from Class I through graduation for up to two dependent children of ex-servicemen. The enhanced rate of ₹2,000 per month also applies to widows pursuing two-year postgraduate courses, expanding educational support opportunities.
The Marriage Grant benefit applies to marriages of up to two daughters of ex-servicemen, as well as widow remarriage, provided the marriage is solemnised after the issue of the order. The doubled amount of ₹1,00,000 per beneficiary significantly increases support for these important life events.
Funding and Implementation Framework
These welfare schemes are financed through the Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund, which forms part of the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. The Ministry of Defence emphasised that this decision significantly strengthens the social security framework for veterans and their families, reaffirming the government's resolve to honour the nation's veterans.
The implementation of these enhanced benefits demonstrates the government's continued commitment to recognising the service and sacrifice of military personnel who have served the nation.
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