Praising the armed forces for their service to the nation, Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar said the government was taking steps for the welfare of soldiers and veterans.
Making his customary address to the armed forces on the eve of Independence Day on Sunday, Mr. Parrikar said that in addition to implementing One Rank, One Pension, several other measures are being taken, including streamlining the Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS).
His remarks come at a time when the services have sought parity with the civilian counterparts following the recommendations of the 7th Pay Commission, and the dilution of the definition of the One Rank, One Pension as accepted by Parliament earlier.
Mr. Parrikar said the government was providing quality and affordable medicare to the ex-servicemen and their dependents. “As part of healthcare reforms, we have completely digitised the ECHS,” he said, adding that a total of over 47 lakhs beneficiaries have been covered under ECHS.
Grant for daughters
Mr. Parrikar also announced benefits for veterans and their families. From April 1 this year, the marriage grant for up to two daughters of ex-servicemen has been revised from Rs. 16,000 to Rs. 50,000.
The number of scholarships under the Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme (PMSS) has been raised from 4,000 to 5,500 with effect from the academic year 2015-16 to be shared equally between boys and girls.
“The scheme aims at promoting higher technical and professional education among the wards of ex-servicemen /ex-Coast Guard,” he observed. Mr. Parrikar said he had directed the Ministry to complete the Married Accommodation Project (MAP) on priority basis.
The severe shortage of accommodation was causing hardships to families of personnel in forward areas.
This project is expected to provide nearly two lakh dwelling units for the married personnel near their places of posting.
The soon-to-be implemented third and final phase of MAP will provide an additional 71,000 dwelling units.
Stressing on maintaining high operational preparedness, the Minister said the government has taken many steps to streamline the asset procurement process and make it faster and transparent.
“You are aware of the need to maintain all-round vigil on the nation’s borders. Therefore, we should keep our assets in readiness and be able to mobilise troops to forward positions at short notice,” the Minister noted.
