Evaluation of Welfare Measures out there to Battle Widows/ Households in Armed Forces

Evaluation of Welfare Measures out there to Battle Widows/ Households in Armed Forces

STANDING COMMITTEE ON DEFENCE
(2022-23)
(SEVENTEENTH LOK SABHA)

MINISTRY OF DEFENCE

ASSESSMENT OF WELFARE MEASURES AVAILABLE TO WAR WIDOWS/ FAMILIES IN ARMED FORCES

THIRTY-FIRST REPORT

LOK SABHA SECRETARIAT
NEW DELHI

December, 2022 / Agrahayana 1944 (Saka)

CONTENTS

COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE (2021-22)
COMPOSITION OF THE COMMITTEE (2022-23)

INTRODUCTION

REPORT

PART I

INTRODUCTORY

Chapter I Coverage and Construction
Chapter II Supply Mechanism for Welfare Measures
Chapter III Employment/Resettlement
Chapter IV Medical and Academic Amenities
Chapter V Pensions
Chapter VI Consciousness Technology and Grievance Redressal
Chapter VII Recognition of Martyrs and Their Households

PART II

Observations/Suggestions

ANNEXURE

Entitlements to the NoKs of the Battle Casualties

APPENDICES

Minutes of the Sittings of the Standing Committee on Defence held on 27.05.2022 and 14.11.2022

INTRODUCTION

I, the Chairperson of the Standing Committee on Defence (2022-23), having been authorised by the Committee, current this Thirty-first Report (seventeenth Lok Sabha) on the topic ‘Evaluation of Welfare Measures Accessible to Battle Widows/ Households in Armed Forces.’

2. The topic ‘Evaluation of Welfare Measures Accessible to Battle Widows/ Households in Armed Forces’ was chosen for the examination through the 12 months 2021-22 and 2022-23. The Committee took proof of the representatives of the Ministry of Defence on twenty seventh Might 2022. The draft Report was thought-about and adopted by the Committee at their Sitting held on 14th November, 2022.

3. The Committee want to categorical their due to the officers of the Ministry of Defence for showing earlier than the Committee and furnishing the fabric and data which the Committee desired in reference to examination of the topic.

4. For facility of reference and comfort, Observations/Suggestions of the Committee have been printed in daring letters in Half II of the Report.

New Delhi;
13 December, 2022
22 Agrahayana, 1944 (Saka)

JUAL ORAM
Chairperson
Standing Committee on Defence

Report

PART- I

Introductory

Based on the Ministry of Defence, war-widows or ‘Veer-Naris’ are the ladies who’ve misplaced their husbands in struggle/navy operation. There are a number of ladies who had misplaced their husbands in World Battle-II, Indo-Pak, Indo-China struggle and kargil/ Army operations at a really younger age. As most girls hail from rural areas and are unaware of their rights and entitlements, the division has a imaginative and prescient to make them conscious and provides mandatory amenities not solely to Martyred troopers household but in addition of all Ex- Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents. Nevertheless, the jurisdiction of this Report is proscribed to evaluation of welfare measures to household of martyred troopers and look at the provisions which have been so made to make sure a dignified life to the dependents of those that have sacrificed their lives within the line of obligation. The Household of martyred soldier has been addressed as ‘veer-nari/Subsequent of Kins (NoKs)’ on this Report.

2. The Committee have been given to know that as per regulation 107 of the Pensions Laws for Army, Half-I (2008), for the aim, Household shall include the next: –

(i) Husband/spouse lawfully married earlier than or after retirement.

(ii) A judicially separated spouse or husband, such separation not being granted on the bottom of adultery and the particular person surviving was not held responsible of committing adultery.

(iii) Single son/single daughter precise and legit together with posthumous/ widowed /divorced daughter.

(iv) Father

(v) Mom

(vi) Single brother

(vii) Single sister

The above provisions are relevant to 3 wings of Armed Forces i.e. Indian Army, Indian Navy and Indian Air Power.

Chapter – I

Coverage and Construction

The Committee have learnt that there exists a nicely structured institutional framework within the type of Division of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), and the specialised connected places of work of DESW and three Companies Headquarters. The Division was established in 2007 and it has practically 15000 veer-naris. All of the welfare companies and assist required are adequately lined by way of these devoted establishments which collectively implement and administer big range of schemes and interventions that are required.

1.2. The Division of Ex-servicemen Welfare formulates varied insurance policies and programmes for the welfare and resettlement of Ex-Servicemen (ESM) within the nation that are applied by way of its three connected places of work specifically, Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB), Directorate Common (Resettlement) (DGR) and Central Group, Ex- servicemen Contributory Well being Scheme (ECHS). The KSB is accountable for formulating the coverage and pointers for the welfare of Ex-Servicemen and their dependents and likewise for the administration of welfare funds. The workplace of Directorate Common of Resettlement implements varied Insurance policies / Schemes / Programmes on pre and publish retirement coaching, re-employment and self-employment and so on. ECHS takes care of the healthcare and medical wants of Ex-servicemen and their dependents.

1.3. Along with above, all of the three Service headquarters have their very own specialised directorates viz Directorate of Army veterans (DIAV) of Indian Army, Directorate of Air Veterans, and Directorate of Ex-servicemen Affairs (DESA) of Indian Navy, which endeavour in direction of making certain an honest life to retired personnel and their dependents, by way of their schemes/programmes.

1.4. The Committee had been apprised by the Ministry that there isn’t any want for a devoted division to look completely after wants of veer-naris/NoKs. With regard to complete variety of veer-naris within the nation, the Committee had been knowledgeable that the whole variety of struggle widows within the nation is 15021. Nevertheless, State/UT sensible break-up information was not out there. A knowledge about NoKs is shall even be maintained.

1.5. The Committee got here to study that the circumstances through which a soldier has died decide the variations in advantages accrued to their members of the family. On this connection, the Ministry of Defence had submitted an in depth notice as beneath:

“For grant of pensionary awards to households of Armed Forces Personnel, the circumstances of dying of the Armed Forces personnel has been categorized as beneath:

Class A

Demise or incapacity attributable to pure causes neither attributable to nor aggravated by navy service as decided by the competent medical authorities. Examples can be illnesses of nature of constitutional illnesses as assessed by medical authorities, persistent illnesses like coronary heart and renal illnesses, extended sickness, accidents whereas not on obligation.

Rationalization:

The circumstances of dying attributable to pure causes falling beneath Class A entitles peculiar household pension (50% of reckonable emoluments at enhanced price and 30% of reckonable emoluments at regular price).

Class B

Demise or incapacity attributable to causes that are accepted as attributable to or aggravated by navy service as decided by the competent medical authorities. Illness contracted due to continued publicity to hostile work environments topic to excessive climate situations or occupational hazards leading to dying or incapacity can be examples.

Class C

Demise or incapacity attributable to accidents within the efficiency of duties similar to:

(i) Accidents whereas travelling on obligation in Authorities autos or public/personal transport.

(ii) Accidents throughout air journeys.

(iii) Mishaps at sea whereas on obligation.

(iv) Electrocution whereas on obligation and so on.

(v) Accidents throughout participation in organised sports activities occasions/journey actions/ expeditions or coaching.

Rationalization:

In case of dying of Armed Forces personnel falling beneath Class B and Class C particular household pension (@60% of the reckonable emoluments) could also be granted to the eligible member of the household of the deceased personnel.

Class D

Demise or incapacity attributable to acts of violence /assault by terrorists, anti- social parts and so on. whether or not on obligation aside from operational obligation and even when not on obligation. Bomb blasts in public locations or transport, indiscriminate taking pictures incidents in public and so on. can be lined beneath this class, apart from dying/incapacity occurring whereas employed in assist of civil energy and likewise whereas coping with pure calamities. Unintentional killing by personal troops through the course of obligation in an operational space. Electrocutions/assaults by wild animals and snake chew/drowning throughout plan of action in counter insurgency/struggle. Unintended dying/harm sustained attributable to pure calamities similar to flood, avalanches, landslides, cyclone, hearth and lightening or drowning in river whereas performing operational duties/motion in motion towards enemy forces and armed hostilities in operational space to incorporate deployment on worldwide border or line of management.

Class E

Demise or incapacity arising because of: –

(i) Enemy motion in worldwide struggle
(ii) Motion throughout deployment with a peace retaining mission overseas
(iii) Border skirmishes
(iv) Throughout laying or clearance of mines together with enemy mines as additionally mine sweeping operations.
(v) On account of unintentional explosions of mines whereas laying operationally oriented mine subject or lifting or negotiating mine subject laid by the enemy or personal forces in operational areas close to worldwide borders or the road of management.
(vi) Battle like conditions, together with circumstances that are attributable to/aggravated by:-

(1) extremist acts, exploding mines and so on, whereas on solution to an operational space.
(2) battle inoculation coaching workout routines or demonstration with stay ammunition.
(3) Kidnapping by extremists whereas on operational obligation

(vii) An act of violence/assault by extremists, anti social parts and so on. whereas on operational obligation.
(viii) Motion towards extremists, delinquent parts and so on. dying/incapacity whereas employed in the help of civil energy in quelling agitation, riots or revolt by demonstrators shall be lined beneath this class.
(ix) Operations specifically notified by the Authorities every now and then

Rationalization:

In case of dying of Armed Forces personnel falling beneath Class D and Class E liberalized household pension equal to reckonable emoluments could also be granted to the eligible member of the household of the deceased personnel.

The main points of Central Ex-Gratia Quantity paid.

Ex-Gratia Lump Sum Compensation of Demise. The compensation is granted is granted on the following newest charges:-

1.6 The Committee had been additionally knowledgeable by representatives of Ministry of Defence as beneath:

“एक लाख रुपए तक मैरिज ग्रांट मिलती है, जो डॉटर्स और विडोज रीमैरिज के लिए होती है और ऑरफन सन के लिए भी होती है। वोकेशनल ट्रेनिंग ग्रांट भी करीब-करीब 20 हजार रुपये तक होती है, जो हवलदार रैंक तक के लिए होती हीै। Concessions as much as 75 per cent on railway tickets to widows and complementary card passes to Chakra awardees and their widows की भी सुविधा है। हालांकि, आजकल मोबाइल का जमाना है, लेकिन फिर भी 50 per cent concessions in rental fees to Chakra awardees and struggle widows को टेलिफोन कनसेशन के रूप में मिलता है। Additionally, monetary help to 100 per cent disabled kids of ESM, मतलब कोई डिसेबल्ड चिल्ड्रन भी हो तो उसको भी फाइनेंशियल असिस्टेंस मिलता है। पहले एक हज़ार रुपये था, हाल ही में उसको तीन हज़ार रुपये किए हैं। अंत में यह जिक्र करना चाह रहे थे कि प्राइम मिनिस्टर स्कॉलरशिप 5500 तमाम सीएपीएफ को भी है और रेलवे प्रोटेक्शन फोर्स को भी है और हमारा ज्यादा कोटा है, हमारा आर्म्ड फोर्सेज़ का। उसमें पिछले तीन साल में 43 वॉर विडोज़ को करीब-करीब 12-13 लाख रुपये मिले हैं इसका 2500 रुपेय प्रति माह लड़कों के लिए है और 3000 रुपये प्रति महीने लड़कियों के लिए है। सर, लास्ट स्लाइड में आर्म्ड फोर्सेज़ बैटल कैज़ुएलिटीज़ वैलफेयर फंड का जिक्र करना चाह रहे हैं। यह अराउंड 1098 बैटल कुज़ुएलिटीज़ और उनके किन को करीब-करीब 32 करोड़ रुपये डिस्ट्रिब्यूट किया गया है। यह उसका ईयरवाइज़ ब्रेक-अप है।

Chapter – II

Supply Mechanism for Welfare Measures

The Committee had been knowledgeable that the info of variety of beneficiaries and the quantity of grant given towards every scheme is analysed on common foundation to measure the influence of all of the schemes run by the Ministry of Defence, Division of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), varied Service Headquarters and its connected places of work. A number of modifications within the present schemes are carried out at common intervals to make sure the specified influence. New schemes are additionally added relying on the requirement. The quantum of the advantages have been modified every now and then by way of the present administrative channels. An in depth record of economic help and different concessions given to the NoK (Subsequent of Kin)/dependents and Veer-Naris of the Battle Casualties is annexed at Annexure.

2.2. Additional, the Committee got to know that the info of variety of beneficiaries and the quantity of grant given towards every scheme is analysed on common foundation to measure the influence of all of the schemes run by the MoD, DESW, varied Service Headquarters and its connected places of work. A number of modifications within the present schemes are carried out at common intervals to make sure the specified influence. New schemes are additionally added relying on the requirement. The quantum of the advantages have been modified every now and then by way of the present administrative channels.

Welfare Measures Supply on the State/District stage

2.3. The Ministry of Defence has knowledgeable the Committee that Kendriya Sainik Board is headed by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri and the Chief Ministers, Directors of Union Territories are its member. It’s a excessive stage board specifically created to take care of the problems of ESM/dependents. There are 33 Rajya Sainik Boards (RSBs) and 403 Zila Sainik Board (ZSBs) to take care of the nicely beings of ESM/Dependents. As per the present composition of the ZSB, the President of every ZSB is the involved District Justice of the Peace/District Collector. The Secretary of ZSB is the Zila Sainik Welfare Officer who’s appointed by the State Authorities in session with RSB/KSB. All the required assist to the ESM/ BCs (Battle Casualty)/ NoK are being rendered by them.

2.4. Additional, it was added by MoD that Within the final 10 years, variety of ZSBs have elevated from 220 to 403. That is based totally on variety of ESM and households of serving/deceased service personnel in that space. A brand new ZSB will be arrange by involved state govt themselves if the inhabitants of ESM and households of serving /deceased service personnel is above 7500. In case if the inhabitants of ESM is lower than 7500 in a district, the place no different ZSB is in neighborhood, the prior approval of Central Govt is required for setting of latest ZSB. Lately 4 new ZSBs have been sanctioned in Delhi.

2.5. The Committee had desired to be apprised in regards to the accessibility of ZSB to beneficiaries residing in its space of jurisdiction. In response, the Ministry has acknowledged that pro-active measures have been taken by the ZSBs by varied means to make sure that all ESM fraternity is conscious of the newest amenities and welfare measures which have been slated by the Central and the State Governments. A number of the procedures adopted are publishing booklets, radio and TV board casts in native dialects, utilizing print and digital media, Discover Boards/ hoardings displaying in distinguished locations frequented by ESM. Common visits, rallies, conferences and interplay organized by the ZSB places of work/ Welfare Organizer in distant localities which has facilitated massive variety of ESM and widows having utilized for varied amenities and welfare schemes. As well as RSB/ZSB conferences are held yearly to evaluation the progress on varied welfare measures/schemes. RSB within the State are chaired by Governor/Chief Minister. Within the final six months Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) and State Managing Committee (SMC) conferences had been held at Rajasthan, Assam, Mizoram and Chandigarh (UT) have taken place. Comparable common conferences are additionally held at ZSB stage.

2.6. Throughout deliberations on the topic, the Committee learnt that along with ex- gratia given by Central / particular person service, ex-gratia cost to veer-nari/NoKs are additionally being paid by respective State/UT Governments. Being a federal construction within the nation, the quantity varies from State to State. On this context, the Committee had been knowledgeable that subject concerning uniformity in funds of ex-gratia quantity to the dependents of Martyrs has already been raised and mentioned in a number of conferences at varied fora. On this connection it was additional knowledgeable that, varied States have just lately elevated the Ex-Gratia quantity for ex Himachal Pradesh has elevated to Rs 20 lakh and Odisha has elevated to Rs 10 lakh.

2.7. The Committee had been apprised in regards to the methodologies devised for well timed supply of companies/schemes channelized for the welfare of veer-nari/subsequent to kins. The Ministry of Defence by way of a written reply furnished as beneath:

“System for funds of welfare schemes of Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF) to beneficiaries Veer-Nari/ Subsequent of kins have been applied by way of Direct Profit Switch (DBT). The cost /welfare grants are made out of AFDDF which is a corpus financed by volunteer contribution from the citizenry and funded by Govt. The up to date cost standing is being uploaded on the KSB Portal on common foundation.”

Chapter – III

Employment/Resettlement

With regard to compassionate appointments, the Committee had been knowledgeable that the appointments are being made by involved Service Headquarters of Army, Navy and Air Power to widows / households of defence personnel. The Ministry had furnished the next particulars indicating varied relaxations and so on being given to veer-nari/NoKs:-

“(a) Officer Choice

(i) Widow of Defence Personnel, who’ve died in harness might be eligible to use for Brief Service Fee (Non- Tech) and (Tech). They’re eligible even when they kids however ought to solely haven’t re-married. A complete of 5% vacancies might be earmarked for widows each for SSC (Tech) ladies and SSC (Non-Tech) ladies entry. The higher age restrict is upto 35 years of age on the time of graduation of coaching at OTA, Chennai.

(ii) For SSCW (Non- Tech) entry the place UPSC examination is relevant, the requirement for present process UPSC is waived for such widows. They’re chosen by way of SSB.

(iii) 10% vacancies can be found to Wards (Little kids together with legally adopted kids) of Battle Casualty for grant of Brief Service Fee (SSC) out of fastened vacancies launched per course to ‘C’ Certificates holders of NCC. There isn’t a rest in eligibility standards besides that situation of holding of NCC ‘C’ Certificates shouldn’t be necessary for these vacancies.

(b) JCO/ORs Enrolment.

On the spot Enrolment is offered into the Army by way of UHQ enrolment by respective Regiment/Corps Coaching Facilities as per coverage att. Extract of coverage on ‘On the spot Enrolment’ is as beneath:-

(i) One son of deadly battle casualty/ Battle Casualty boarded out. In case underage, he could also be enrolled when he attains the age required.

(ii) When Deceased was unmarried-One actual brother of a Battle Casualty.

(iii) When Deceased’s Widow is Issueless or has no Male Little one- One actual brother of a Battle Casualty offered the actual brother will get married to the deceased widow.

(iv) When Deceased’s Widow has a Male Little one who has not Attained age for enrolment-One actual brother of Battle Casualty offered the actual brother will get married to the deceased’s widow. On this case the male little one on attaining the enrolment ate is not going to be entitled for fast Enrolment. Nevertheless, he’ll get the concession/relaxations for enrolment as relevant to sons of Servicemen/Ex-servicemen.

(v) When the Battle Casualty has been invalidated out of Service on Medical Grounds-One actual son on attaining the age required for enrolment.”

3.2. With regard to the coverage on reservation of seats completely for veer- nari or their kids in State or Central Authorities companies, the Ministry had furnished the next data:

“Central and State Authorities – The Central/State Govts have offered quite a few concessions to advertise employment of Ex-Servicemen, widows/ dependents of service personnel killed in motion within the civil jobs. The main points are as follows :-

(a) There are reservations in Govt. Departments, PSUs Nationalised Banks and Para Army Forces as follows: –

(iii) For the aim of appointment in Group ‘C’ and ‘D’ posts beneath the Central Govt the next precedence is accorded:

(iv) Disabled Ex-servicemen whose incapacity is attributable to navy companies are accorded Precedence-I.

(v) Upto 2 dependents of Armed forces personnel killed in motion or severely disabled (with 50 p.c and above incapacity and who’ve grow to be unfit for employment however incapacity is attributable to navy service) are accorded Precedence-II, which included the widow of the deceased solider additionally.

(vi) A lot of the State Governments additionally present reservations to Ex- Servicemen & the dependents (together with widow) in State Authorities/ State PSU jobs.

(b) CPSUs/Nationalised Banks 14.5% vacancies in Group ‘C’ and 24.5% vacancies in Group ‘D’ are reserved for ESM in Nationalized Banks and CPSUs. This consists of 4.5% reservation for disabled ex-servicemen and dependents of servicemen killed in motion.

(c) Widow/son/daughter of Armed Forces Personnel died whereas in service (dying not attributable to navy service) are additionally eligible for compassionate appointment for Group ‘C’ or ‘D’ publish.”

3.3. Additional the Committee discovered that following variety of Compassionate Appointments have been given to widows/households of defence personnel :

“Air Power : 30 (since 2016)
Navy : 35 (since 2014)
Army : The requisite particulars aren’t available as compassionate appointment are made by involved Line Directorates.”

3.4. As regards different employment settlement avenues, the Committee had been knowledgeable that Resettlement of veer-nari/households is proscribed to the next schemes:-

(a) Oil Product Company Distributorship.
(b) Coal Tipper Allotment Scheme for Widows.

3.5. It was additional added that Ministry of Petroleum and Pure Fuel (MoPNG) has reserved a quota of 8% for distributorship of Oil Product Company i.e. LPG distributorship and Retail Retailers (Petrol/Diesel). No unique reservation for milk cubicles/kiosks exist for veer-nari or kids/dad and mom of martyred troopers.

3.6. The Committee additionally desired to seek out out whether or not Ministry has formulated any particular incentive schemes to develop abilities amongst veer-nari/ NoKs. On this regard, it was knowledgeable that Directorate Common Resettlement (DGR), an connected workplace of MoD (Beneath Division of Ex-Servicemen Welfare) is entrusted with the conduct of Resettlement Coaching Programs for retiring/retired personnel of Armed Forces. The period of those programs is between one month to 9 month, these programs are performed in multifarious fields similar to Administration, Safety, Retail, Healthcare, Yoga & Health and IT Sector and so on. These programs are performed at Central/State Authorities Institute/Institute run by Authorities Regulatory Our bodies/ Institutes. There are 3% seats reserved for widows /one ward in these programs (in case widow refuses to bear course).

Chapter – IV

Medical and Academic Amenities

Medical Amenities

The Committee have been knowledgeable that ECHS takes care of the healthcare and medical wants of Ex-servicemen and their dependents. Battle Widows are exempted from paying the one time contribution quantity for ECHS membership and might avail cashless and capless medical advantages alongwith their eligible dependents by way of ECHS.

4.2. The Committee had been involved to seek out how veer-nari/NoKs are accorded due respect and care at polyclinics. It was knowledgeable that veer-nari are being accorded due respect and care within the ECHS Polyclinics. Senior Govt Medical Officers (SEMOs) are being continuously suggested to make sure well timed procurement of medicines for ECHS Polyclinics to make sure optimum availability. The Formation Headquarters are additionally being requested to observe the procurement course of by way of respective medical branches.

4.3. With respect to therapy at personal hospitals, the Committee got here to know that veer-nari and eligible dependents are entitled to avail medical companies of civil Empanelled Well being Care Organisations as ECHS beneficiaries.

Academic Amenities

4.4. The Committee sought particulars of advantages, i.e. exemption in tuition charges, admission in technical or skilled school and so on., given to the kids of veer-nari and youngsters of martyred soldier. The main points as furnished to the Committee are as beneath:

5.2. The Committee enquired whether or not there’s any scheme for facilitating oversees schooling to meritorious veer-nari or their kids. On this connection, it was knowledgeable that presently no such scheme is present.

5.3. With regard to initiatives for facilitating admission of veer-nari or the kids of martyred soldier in varied deemed/personal universities, Ministry of Defence knowledgeable that the inter–se precedence for admission for skilled /non-professional programs in varied schooling establishments/ universities is as per MoD/DESW letter No 6(I)/2017/D(Res-II) dated 21 Might 2018, whereby the highest most precedence (i.e. Precedence-I) is given to wards/ widow of serving personnel killed in motion.

5.4. Particularly with regard to reservation of seats in MBBS course of varied universities for veer nari/NoKs, the Ministry knowledgeable {that a} complete of 35 MBBS seats approx and three seats in BDS programs are allotted by Ministry of Well being Household Welfare to KSB for wards of defence personnel as a Authorities of India nominee. Particulars of MBBS seats allotted to dependent of personnel killed in motion through the interval 2019 to 2022 are as beneath:-

There are provisions of Reservation of Seats in Medical/Dental/Skilled/ Non skilled Programs by States/UTs/Central/State Universities/Autonomous Establishments for wards/widows of ESMs as per the precedence laid down by MoD with prime most precedence in direction of/widows of personnel killed in motion.

Chapter – V

Pensions

The Committee had been knowledgeable that some delays have taken place in disbursement of pension attributable to non-submission of life certificates on time. On this connection, the Ministry additional submitted that SPARSH- Net portal has made provisions to subject SMS alerts wherever annual identification is due. Equally, DPDOs additionally points notices wherever a pensioner stays unidentified after a 12 months cycle. Nevertheless, at current there isn’t any provision to method Veer-nari or guardian of a martyred soldier personally. Additional, the Committee additionally discovered that full pension is given to orphan kids of martyred soldier or dad and mom of single martyred soldier. One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme can be relevant to Veer-Naris. With regards to mechanism of arriving at price, it’s submitted that as a fundamental precept after 2006, 50% of final pay drawn is pension. Whereas LFP is final pay drawn. Primarily based on this precept LFP charges beneath OROP have been arrived by doubling the service pension charges for a specific qualifying service beneath OROP.

Central Knowledge Base

5.2. An Annual Census is finished within the month of April by PCDA (P) Praygaraj to establish complete variety of defence pensioners. This train is finished by amassing information from Pension Disbursement Businesses (PDAs). Some percentages of funds are additionally audited by PCDA (P) Prayagraj to confirm quantum of advantages. It was knowledgeable that PCDA (P) Prayagraj maintains information base of pensioners. Nevertheless, as knowledgeable to the Committee separate information base of Veer-Nari aren’t maintained by them.

5.3. An Annual Census is finished within the month April by PCDA (P) Praygaraj to establish complete variety of defence pensioners. This train is finished by amassing information from Pension Disbursement Businesses (PDAs). Some percentages of funds are additionally audited by PCDA (P) Prayagraj to confirm quantum of advantages.

Chapter – VI

Consciousness Technology and Grievance Redressal

The Committee have been apprised that grievance redressal mechanism with references to instructional, medical or every other companies in respect of veer-nari have been adopted at ZSB/RSB and KSB stage. ZSBs are additionally being included in Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) Ver 7.0. The grievances of veer-nari are obtained at varied ranges i.e. KSB, RSB, ZSBs and a few forwarded by different organisations of Central/State. Endeavour is to resolve the grievances on the earliest whereas land and different household disputes take longer instances. The info in CPGRAMS doesn’t keep particularly report like veer-nari. Additional, it was added that respective ZSB/RSB maintains a report of the complaints/ grievances obtained from struggle widows and their grievances are resolved on the earliest.

6.2. With regard to consciousness technology amongst veer-nari/NoKs in regards to the welfare schemes, the Committee had been knowledgeable that each one welfare schemes /insurance policies /advantages pertaining to struggle widows and their households are displayed on the discover boards/premises/places of work/ campus of all RSB/ZSBs to facilitate huge publicity and consciousness amongst ESM neighborhood. Directions on the above have been issued by KSB Secretariat to all RSB/ZSBs to test this side throughout annual inspection of RSB/ZSB by KSB. As well as, all insurance policies, welfare schemes, procedures and so on are additionally out there on KSB web site.

6.3. Zila Sainik Welfare officer (ZSWOs)/ Welfare Organizer of involved state frequently go to/ method war-widows and their households for needful/ help. As well as, data are maintained and up to date in any respect ZSWOs. All the data associated to pension, advantages and schemes are displayed/ uploaded on the web site of the Service headquarters and the Division of Ex-Servicemen Welfare.

Chapter – VII

Recognition of Martyrs and Their Households

The Committee have been apprised that the households of Battle casualties/NoK/Veer-Nari are invited to Nationwide Battle memorial, New Delhi. Consequent to the Nationwide Battle Memorial being devoted to the Nation by Honourable Prime Minister on February 25, 2019, to honour the martyrs, whose names are inscribed on the ‘Tyag Chakra’ of the Memorial, a Homage ceremony is performed by tri Companies on completely different days of each month, through which the NoKs of the battle casualties are invited to put the wreath on the ‘Tyag Chakra’. NoKs are additionally honoured and invited to numerous features every now and then.

7.2. Additional, veer-nari /households are invited as particular friends at features/ ceremonies as and when organized at district and State stage. On this regard, specifically a welfare organizer from respective ZSB/RSB has been detailed to coordinate the identical. Veer- nari and their dependents are offered class I lodging throughout Veterans Day perform held on 14 January yearly at New Delhi. In addition to these, all Command Headquarters and Native models invite veer-nari and NoKs for features and ceremonies organized by them. Each ZSB/RSB have their very own standing orders for provisioning with regard to allotment of lodging freed from value and ship invitation playing cards and car offered to inviting veer-naris/households throughout features/ceremonies as and when organized. As well as, scorching meals are additionally offered through the visits.

PART- II

Observations/Suggestions

Structural Reforms

1. The Committee take notice that varied schemes/companies meant for the welfare of veer-nari and NoKs are presently administered and are available beneath the jurisdiction of Division of Ex-Servicemen Welfare and its connected places of work specifically Kendriya Sainik Board, Directorate Common Resettlement (DGR), Central Organisation and Ex-Servicemen Contributory Well being Scheme (ECHS) and there’s no completely devoted division/Workplace or Designated Officers within the Ministry to take care of and intervene for the welfare measures of the households of martyred troopers. The Committee are of the opinion {that a} separate Division inside MoD completely accountable for the welfare of Veer Naris/NoKs could also be created in order that the varied points pertaining to them may very well be intently examined in a extra focussed method. Such an association would allow environment friendly supply of welfare advantages for veer-nari and NoKs.

Upkeep of database

2. The Committee notice that statistical information on variety of veer-naris and Subsequent of Kins (NoKs) and the quantity of grant been given to them beneath varied schemes is analysed on common foundation to evaluate the influence of all of the schemes run by the MoD, DESW, varied Service Headquarters and its connected places of work. Nevertheless, the Committee discover that State/UT sensible break-up information for veer-nari was not out there with Ministry of Defence, though, a determine of 15021 representing complete variety of veer-nari within the nation was furnished to them. The Committee are of the opinion that correct estimation of variety of beneficiaries and common updation of database would facilitate correct implementation of schemes and the attainment of desired goals. As an illustration, if a member ceases to be eligible for grant/profit the identify must be faraway from the record. The Committee suggest {that a} complete state-wise information for veer-nari and likewise NoKs must be maintained. It goes with out saying that the applied sciences/instruments out there within the Authorities Organisation can be utilized for sustaining and updating the info with none discrepancies.

Ex-gratia Fund

3. The Committee had been knowledgeable by the Ministry that the circumstances through which the soldier dies determines the variations in advantages accrued to their members of the family. Additional, for grant of pensionary awards to households of Armed Forces Personnel, the circumstances of dying of the Armed Forces personnel has been categorized beneath completely different classes. Out of those, Class B and C embody dying or incapacity attributable to causes that are accepted as attributable to or aggravated by navy service as decided by the competent medical authorities. It additionally covers varied kind of accidents throughout efficiency of duties. In such circumstances of dying of Armed Forces personnel falling beneath Class B and C, particular household pension @60% of the reckonable emoluments is granted to the eligible member of the household of the deceased personnel. Whereas being attentive to the specifics acknowledged above, the Committee are cognizant of the truth that dying beneath class B and C don’t match for liberalized household pension. Nevertheless, they observe that because the dying or incapacity is attributable to troublesome working situations of the defence personnel, they subsequently, suggest that the household pension could also be enhanced to 75 per cent of the reckonable emoluments from the present 60 per cent. The Committee want to be apprised of the motion taken on this regard on the time of furnishing Motion Taken Notes.

4. The Committee notice that ex-gratia lump sum compensation of Demise is paid to eligible member of the family of martyred soldier. The Committee had been knowledgeable by a consultant of Ministry of Defence that this quantity varies for various classes of dying of the soldier. Compensation of Rs. 25 lac is granted in case of dying occurring attributable to accidents or acts of violence by terrorists, anti-social parts whereas performing duties and a compensation of Rs. 35 lac is paid in case of dying occurring in border skirmishes and motion towards militants, terrorists, extremists, sea pirates and so on. In addition to, an quantity of Rs. 45 lac is granted as compensation in case of dying occurring throughout enemy motion in struggle. The Committee are of the thought-about view that although lack of lifetime of soldier can’t be evaluated in financial phrases, but monetary grant is useful in offering an affordable and respectful life to members of the family of the soldier. Additional, it additionally acts as an incentive and encouragement for the youth to hitch the Armed Forces. In view of this notion and contemplating enhance within the price of inflation, the Committee suggest that Authorities ought to critically contemplate growing the ex-gratia fund by Rs. 10 Lakh in every of the above class. The minimal quantity beneath any class might be Rs. 35 lakhs and most Rs. 55 lakhs.

Uniformity in ex-gratia funds amongst States

5. The Committee notice that along with ex-Gratia given by Central / particular person service to subsequent of Kins/members of the family, the identical can be given by

respective State/UT Governments to NoK/members of the family of martyrs. Nevertheless, the Committee notice that there’s huge variation in ex-gratia advantages prolonged to veer-nari/NoKs by completely different States which has led to disparities amongst the beneficiaries of the martyrs. As an illustration, ex-Gratia quantity for Himachal Pradesh has been elevated to Rs 20 lakhs and Odisha has elevated it to Rs 10 lakhs. On this connection, the Committee had been apprised that being a federal construction within the nation the quantity varies from State to State. Because the soldier has laid down his life within the service to nation, the Committee need that there needs to be uniformity to the extent doable in cost of ex-gratia fund by state Governments additionally and the argument of federal construction shouldn’t are available the way in which. The Committee aren’t oblivious of the truth that the problem concerning uniformity in funds of ex-gratia quantity to the dependents of Martyrs has been raised and mentioned in a number of conferences of the Committee with none optimistic final result. Subsequently, the Committee, in no unequivocal phrases suggest that requisite measures be initiated and must be put in place for sensitizing state Governments to usher in extra uniformity in granting ex-gratia fund for households of martyred troopers.

Welfare Measures Supply on the State/District stage

6. The Committee notice that Kendriya Sainik Board is headed by Hon’ble Raksha Mantri and comprising of the Chief Ministers, Directors of Union Territories as its members, is a excessive stage board specifically created to look into the problems of ESM/dependents. Presently there are 33 Rajya Sainik Boards (RSBs) and 403 Zila Sainik Board (ZSBs) to take care of the nicely beings of ESM/Dependents. Additional, the Committee notice that in final 10 years, quantity of ZSBs have elevated from 220 to 403. This was based totally on variety of ESM and households of serving/deceased service personnel in that space. The Committee had been apprised {that a} new ZSB will be arrange by involved State Authorities themselves if the inhabitants of ESM and households of serving/ deceased service personnel is above 7500. The Committee are of thought-about opinion that position of Central Authorities in welfare of NoKs and veer-naris needs to be pivotal and it can’t be left to the state equipment. Subsequently, conferences of all central boards must be held regularly and at common intervals in order to have efficient monitoring of functioning of state/district Boards.

7. The Committee observe that apart from establishing a ZSB, additionally it is crucial that ZSB is accessible to beneficiaries coming beneath its jurisdiction. Particularly with regard to veer nari and NoKs, as their particulars can be found, RSB/ZSB must be pro-actively concerned in overseeing correct implementation of welfare schemes for them. The conferences of those Boards shall be held on common foundation in order to make sure visibility of their working within the zone. It might be ensured that advantages of varied schemes are personally delivered to Veer Nari/NOK and so they be apprised of the schemes out there for them.

Employment/Re-settlement

8. The Committee notice that compassionate appointments are being made by involved Service Headquarters of Army, Navy and Air Power to widows / households of defence personnel, whereby widows of Defence Personnel, who lose their lives whereas performing the duties are eligible for making use of for Brief Service Fee (Non- Tech) and (Tech). They’re eligible even when they’ve kids however shouldn’t have been re-married. A complete of 5% vacancies are earmarked for widows each for SSC (Tech) ladies and SSC (Non-Tech) ladies entry. The Committee need that the factors of veer-nari being single for employment eligibility must be re-looked into. Additional, it has come to note of Committee that in some circumstances of compassionate appointments, candidates need to face inordinate delays for getting appointments. Evidently in sure circumstances, the widows cross their age-limit while ready for announcement of vacancies. The Committee suggest {that a} appropriate mechanism must be formulated in order to make sure that a minimum of eligible and keen veer-nari or NoK be given both employment or a resettlement choice within the shortest time interval doable.

9. On the problem of resettlement of veer-nari/NoKs, the Committee had been knowledgeable that varied relaxations are being given to veer-nari/NoKs, one such measure is being ten per cent vacancies made out there to Wards (Little kids together with legally adopted kids) of Battle Casualty for grant of Brief Service Fee (SSC) out of fastened vacancies launched per course to ‘C’ Certificates holders of NCC. The Committee are shocked to notice that as an alternative of getting separate pool of vacancies reserved for Veer Narees/NOKs there isn’t any rest in eligibility standards besides that situation of holding of NCC ‘C’ Certificates shouldn’t be necessary for these vacancies. The Committee subsequently suggest that some fastened share of reservation must be made completely for wards of martyred troopers out of basic quota.

10. With regard to enrolment as JCO/Different Ranks, the Committee had been knowledgeable that on the spot enrolment is finished within the Army by way of Unit Head Quarter enrolment by respective Regiment/Corps Coaching Facilities as per coverage. On gleaning by way of the extract of coverage on ‘On the spot Enrolment’ furnished to the Committee, it was discovered that for the stated objective, one son of deadly battle casualty/ Battle Casualty boarded out is given consideration and in case of being beneath aged the particular person could also be enrolled when he attains the age required. When deceased was single, one actual brother of a Battle Casualty is taken into account for employment and in case of deceased’s widow is issueless or has no male little one or has underaged male little one, one actual brother of a battle casualty, offered the actual brother will get married to the deceased widow is taken into account for service. The Committee really feel that eligibility standards or the coverage for the employment has not been revisited since a very long time as eligibility standards is fastened for the male little one solely. The Committee, subsequently, suggest that the extant insurance policies must be revisited with a view to have gender equality and actual sister and feminine little one must also be made eligible/.entitled for service after fulfilment of requisite eligibility standards for fast employment.

11. With regard to the compassionate appointments of veer-nari/households, the Committee discovered that presently 30 personnel in Air Power (since 2016) and 35 in Navy (since 2014) got employment. Surprisingly, Army which is the most important goal of all of the forces has not maintained the requisite information, and it’s maintained by the Directorate. The Committee need that information with regard compassionate appointments to NoK or veer-nari households must be correctly maintained by Army and dropped at the information of the Committee. The Committee be aware of the variety of compassionate appointments in Air Power and Navy and discover it lesser than anticipated. Nevertheless, a complete evaluation be made solely when complete variety of NoKs out there within the nation in addition to information in respect of Army is furnished to the Committee.

12. As regards different re-settlement avenues, the Committee notice that re-settlement of veer-nari/households is proscribed to the schemes of Oil Product Company Distributorship and Coal Tipper Allotment Scheme for Widows. The Ministry of Petroleum and Pure Fuel (MoPNG) has reserved a quota of 8 per cent for distributorship of oil product company i.e. LPG Distributorship and stores (P/D). The Committee want that the whole variety of allotments made for veer-nari and NoKs vis-à-vis complete allotments be furnished to them alongside on the time of furnishing Motion Taken Replies. The Committee need that 8 per cent reservation of distributorship of oil merchandise must be adhered to strictly each in letter and spirit.

13. The Committee notice that at current there isn’t any provision of reservation for milk cubicles/kiosks and so on for veer-nari or eligible members of the family of martyred troopers. The Committee suggest that Ministry of Defence ought to take up the problem with involved Ministry/company for earmarking a set share of allotment of milk cubicles and different kiosks that are actually straightforward to function as technique of livelihood in comparsion to different centres for veer-nari or NoKs.

14. With respect to particular incentive schemes to develop abilities amongst veer- nari/ NoK, the Committee had been knowledgeable that DGR, an connected workplace of MoD (beneath Division of Ex-Servicemen Welfare) is entrusted with conducting Resettlement Coaching Programs for retiring/retired personnel of Armed Forces. The period of those programs is between one month to 9 months and they’re performed in multifarious fields similar to Administration, Safety, Retail, Healthcare, Yoga & Health and IT Sector and so on. Three per cent seats reserved for widows /one ward in these programs (in case widow refuses to bear course). On this respect, the Committee suggest that as an alternative of limiting the reservation of seats to 3 per cent, these coaching/skilling programs must be made out there to all keen veer-nari and eligible NoKs offered they fulfill fundamental eligibility standards for a similar.

Medical and Academic Amenities

15. The Committee notice that Ex-servicemen Contributory Well being Scheme (ECHS) takes care of the healthcare and medical wants of Ex-servicemen and their dependents. The Ministry have knowledgeable the Committee that Veer-nari are exempted from paying one time contribution of quantity for ECHS membership and might avail cashless and capless medical advantages alongwith their eligible dependents by way of ECHS. It has additionally been knowledgeable that veer-nari and eligible dependents are additionally entitled to avail medical companies of civil Empanelled Well being Care Organisations as ECHS beneficiaries. The Committee observe that at instances some amenities aren’t out there at empanelled hospitals and likewise their location may be very far and never in close to neighborhood of the place of residence of veer-nari/NoKs. Since, offering healthcare amenities to members of the family of martyred soldier is nation is accountability, the Committee really feel that Authorities ought to subject advisory to all ECHS empanelled personal hospitals throughout the nation to offer healthcare amenities to veer-nari and eligible NoKs on precedence foundation.

16. The Committee notice that at current Rs. 700 per pupil every year as clothes fees is being given to kids of veer-naris learning in faculties which is a really meagre quantity in present financial situation. They subsequently suggest that it ought to suitably elevated. Likewise, Rs. 50000 for skilled course can be a meagre quantity when in comparison with the price of charge for prevailing skilled programs in varied faculties. Subsequently, the Committee suggest that Ministry ought to take up the problem of for suitably growing the identical. The Committee additionally notice that at current pc grant of Rs. 35,000 is offered to college students after diploma course. Retaining in view the significance of computer systems in studying the Committee suggest that it must be granted at stage of tenth commonplace itself.

17. In course of examination of the topic, the Committee had been wanting to know in regards to the scheme/ coverage for offering abroad schooling of meritorious veer-nari and eligible NoKs. The representatives of Ministry of Defence had been candid to state that at current there isn’t any such scheme. The Committee suggest that to faucet the hidden expertise of vibrant college students the Authorities ought to ponder formulating a scheme/coverage for funding and facilitating abroad schooling of meritorious and eligible NoKs of martyred troopers.

18. With regard to initiatives for facilitating admission of veer-nari or the kids of martyred soldier in varied deemed/personal universities, the Committee had been knowledgeable that inter–se precedence for admission into skilled /non skilled programs in varied schooling establishments/ universities is given to wards/ widow of serving personnel killed in motion. The Committee while expressing their satisfaction over the endeavors of the Ministry, need that each time a case for admission of wards/partner of personnel killed in motion come to note of Ministry of Defence, efforts must be made at highest stage to accord priorities for securing admission in instructional establishments. On this regard pointers with regard to process for securing admission within the personal school/universities and so on. could also be formulated in session with the Ministry of Training.

19. The Committee additionally notice that there are provisions of reservation of seats in medical/dental/ programs by States/UTs/Central universities /autonomous establishments for wards/widows of ESMs as per the precedence laid down by MoD with prime most precedence in direction of /widows to personnel killed in motion. With regard to reservation of seats in MBBS course of varied universities for veer nari/ noks, the Ministry knowledgeable the Committee {that a} complete of 35 MBBS seats and three seats in BDS are allotted by Ministry of Well being Household Welfare to KSB for wards of defence personnel as a Authorities of India nominee. It was additionally knowledgeable that 11, 15 and 05 no of MBBS seats had been allotted to dependents of struggle widows through the years 2019-20, 2020-21 and 2021-22 respectively. The Committee want to know the explanations for discount within the variety of MBBS seats allotted for wards of struggle widows within the 12 months 2021-22. Because the variety of MBBS seats are being elevated by Authorities in varied medical faculties/establishments throughout the nation the Committee suggest that correspondingly variety of seats earmarked for veer-nari/NoKs must also be elevated.

Pensions

20. The Committee study that there have been delays in disbursement of pension attributable to non-submission of life certificates on time. The representatives of Ministry of Defence have acknowledged that beneath the SPARSH- Net portal there’s a provision to subject SMS alerts wherever annual identification is pending. Nevertheless, the Committee discover that presently there isn’t any follow of personally approaching veer-nari/NoKs for submission of life-certificate. Additional, the Committee notice that although PCDA (P) Prayagraj maintains information base of pensioners, no separate information base of veer-naris is being maintained by them. The Committee suggest that in circumstances the place Veer Naris/NoKs are unable to submit their life certificates suo- moto, they need to be personally approached to allow submission of the identical. On this regard if required help of involved district stage officer could also be solicited. Additionally they suggest {that a} separate information base for veer-narees and NoKs must also be maintained by the Division.

Consciousness Technology and Grievance redressal

21. The Committee got to know that grievance redressal mechanism close to instructional, medical or every other companies in respect of veer-nari or NoKs has been arrange at ZSB/RSB and KSB stage. ZSBs are additionally being included in Centralised Public Grievance Redress and Monitoring System (CPGRAMS) Ver 7.0. which is an internet platform out there to the residents 24×7 to lodge their grievances. The Committee had been additionally apprised by the Ministry that they endeavour to resolve the grievances on the earliest, though land and different household disputes take longer time. It has additionally been knowledgeable that Respective ZSB/RSB maintains a report of the complaints/ grievances obtained from veer- nari or NoKs. Nevertheless, whereas replying to a associated question the Ministry has acknowledged that the report, significantly for struggle widows shouldn’t be maintained. The committee are shocked to seek out two contradictory replies for the same question. Not going additional into these particulars, the Committee, at this stage can solely suggest that information concerning Veer Naris and NoKs must be maintained at ZSB/RSB and KSB ranges with correct monitoring at Central stage. For this objective, if want be the Ministry can contemplate modifying the present CPGRAMS ver. 7.0 by including a separate tab/window for the Veer Nari/NoKs.

Recognition of Martyrs and their households

22. Throughout the course of examination of the topic, the Committee desired that consciousness amongst beneficiaries in regards to the schemes / insurance policies meant for welfare of veer-nari/ NoKs must be created. On this respect, the Ministry of Defence knowledgeable that each one welfare schemes/insurance policies /advantages pertaining to struggle widows and their households are displayed on the discover boards/premises/places of work/ campus of all RSB/ZSBs to facilitate huge publicity and consciousness amongst ESM neighborhood. Directions on the above have been issued by KSB Secretariat to all RSB/ZSBs to test this side throughout annual inspection of RSB/ZSB by KSB. As well as, all insurance policies, welfare schemes, procedures and so on are additionally out there on KSB web site. The Committee have been intimated that ZSWOs/ Welfare Organizer of involved state frequently go to/method veer-nari and their households for needful/ help. As well as, data are maintained and up to date by all ZSWOs and all the data associated to pension, advantages and schemes are displayed/ uploaded on the web site of the Service headquarters and the Division of Ex- Servicemen Welfare. Whereas being attentive to the extant mechanism put in place, the Committee want to suggest that ZSWOs/Welfare Organizer must be held accountable for optimum service supply to all veer-nari/NoKs. The Ministry of Defence should additionally make sure that any kind of exploitation/malpractices which can floor must be dealt firmly inside the prescribed Guidelines/Legal guidelines, and people discovered responsible must be penalized.

New Delhi;
13 December, 2022
22 Agrahayana, 1944 (Saka)

JUAL ORAM
Chairperson
Standing Committee on Defence

Annexure

*****

Click on right here to view/obtain the PDF