Mann Government’s Commitment to Welfare of Soldiers in 2024
Reforms, Financial Support, and Employment Measures Announced for Armed Forces Community
The Punjab Government, led by Chief Minister Bhagwant Singh Mann, has taken significant steps in 2024 to enhance the welfare of soldiers, ex-servicemen, and their families, under the guidance of Defence Services Welfare Minister, Mr. Mohinder Bhagat. The government’s reforms reflect its unwavering commitment to honouring the sacrifices of its Armed Forces community.
A major reform introduced this year was the increase in the Maintenance Monthly Grant for Blue Star-affected Dharmi Faujis, which has been raised from ₹10,000 to ₹12,000. This increase is a direct effort to ensure financial stability for affected families. Additionally, ex-gratia payments for soldiers disabled in service have been doubled, ranging from ₹10 lakh to ₹40 lakh based on the severity of the disability, a move that underscores the government’s respect for those who have served the nation.
The War Jagir Scheme also received a boost, with the annual assistance to beneficiaries being doubled from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000. Financial aid for non-pensioned veterans of World War I and II, along with their widows aged over 65, has also been increased from ₹6,000 to ₹10,000 per month. This adjustment aims to ensure a dignified life for aging war heroes and their families.
In line with Punjab’s deep respect for its martyrs, 65 families of soldiers who sacrificed their lives during Operation Vijay were honoured at a ceremony at the Punjab State War Heroes Memorial in Amritsar. Another significant event was held at the Ludhiana War Memorial to commemorate 114 soldiers martyred during Operation Pawan in Sri Lanka. These events highlight the government’s ongoing efforts to pay tribute to its fallen heroes.
A month-long cycle rally was organized from November 8 to December 7, passing through various districts of Punjab and culminating at the War Memorial in Chandigarh. The rally aimed to instill a sense of patriotism and national pride by reminding citizens of the sacrifices made by soldiers and veterans.
The Mann Government has also focused on employment for the families of soldiers. Under the Honour and Gratitude Policy, 14 dependents of martyrs were provided government jobs, and Punjab has ensured a 13% reservation for ex-servicemen and their dependents in direct recruitment. In the past two years, 2,044 posts have been filled, reflecting the government’s dedication to empowering families of soldiers.
On the administrative front, new service rules for Group B and C officers were approved by the Cabinet, and the department was further strengthened with the recruitment of five District Defence Services Welfare Officers through the Punjab Public Service Commission (PPSC). To streamline pension disbursement, a 15-day special SPARSH Camp was organized, facilitating 1,691 ex-servicemen, widows, and dependents in uploading their life certificates.
The Punjab Government has also revised lump sum grants for military awardees. For example, recipients of the Param Vishisht Seva Medal now receive ₹6 lakh, while those awarded the Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal are granted ₹6.5 lakh. This revision reflects the government’s respect for the valor and achievements of the Armed Forces personnel.
The Defence Services Welfare Department’s initiatives in 2024 mark a transformative period in Punjab’s support for its soldiers and their families, reaffirming the state’s commitment to their welfare, dignity, and prosperity.