Talks between the government and military veterans over the ‘One Rank One Pension’ scheme made significant progress, as the latter agreed to compromise on a two-year revision of pensions.
The government initially offered a >10-year time frame , bringing it down to five, and then to three years, as the present offer stands.
A source said an agreement on the issue appears likely soon.
Sources said both sides appeared to be >softening their stands , and the progress in discussions was “highly positive”.
However, the veterans are not ready to call it a breakthrough yet, as they say they have not got any formal offer from the government,
“The government has not given anything concrete in writing or even orally. How can we call it a breakthrough?” a representative of the veterans, asked.
Another issue on which the talks were stuck was the date of the scheme’s implementation.
While the veterans wanted it to be implemented from April 2014, the government stood adamant on implementing it from April 2015.
“We can give up a few months, that is not an issue,” said the veteran.
There are indications that the government may agree for an implementation date of May or June 2014.
Sources said the issues over base year for implementation, which veterans want to be 2011, was also almost resolved.
The government likely to announce the scheme >before the Election Commission announces the dates for Bihar elections.
