NEW DELHI: The government has reinforced pension benefits under the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme and expanded job opportunities for ex-servicemen in PSUs, government sectors, and private enterprises.
Financial aid is also provided to families of personnel who died in service, with reserved vacancies for widows and dependents in the armed forces.
One Rank One Pension (OROP) and Financial Benefits
A major initiative in the ex-servicemen welfare framework is the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme, which aims to equalize pension benefits for personnel retiring at the same rank with identical years of service. This policy significantly reduces disparities between past and current pensioners, ensuring financial security for veterans and their families.
Additionally, ex-servicemen who have died in service due to reasons attributable to military duties receive financial support through the Special Family Pension or Liberalized Family Pension. Further monetary assistance, including Ex Gratia/Gratuity, is processed in a time-bound manner to assist bereaved families.
Employment and Skill Development Initiatives
To facilitate the reintegration of ex-servicemen into civilian life, the government has launched various re-settlement and skill development programs. These programs help former military personnel transition into roles within government organizations, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), corporate enterprises, and the private sector.
The Indian Army also provides employment opportunities for the wards/children of battle casualties by offering bonus marks in the Online Common Entrance Exam under the Agnipath Scheme and Regular Cadre recruitment. Additionally, a 5% reservation in Short Service Commission for women is extended to widows of defence personnel who have died in service.
Job Reservations for Ex-Servicemen
Recognizing the immense contributions of the armed forces, the government has introduced job reservations for ex-servicemen across multiple sectors:
- Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) and Public Sector Banks:
- 14.5% reservation in Group ‘C’ positions
- 24.5% reservation in Group ‘D’ positions
- 4.5% reservation for disabled ex-servicemen and dependents of those killed in action
- Officer Selection in the Indian Army:
- Special vacancies for widows of ex-servicemen
- Enrolment priority for wards of ex-servicemen in regimental centres
These measures ensure that ex-servicemen and their families receive adequate employment support after their service tenure.
State-Wise Distribution of Ex-Servicemen in India
As of December 31, 2023, India had a total of 2,778,951 ex-servicemen across the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The top states with the highest number of ex-servicemen are:
- Uttar Pradesh – 421,145 veterans
- Punjab – 359,464 veterans
- Maharashtra – 196,487 veterans
- Rajasthan – 209,523 veterans
- Haryana – 175,637 veterans
Strengthening Self-Reliance Through Veteran Workforce
The government’s focus on reemploying ex-servicemen within India’s workforce aligns with its Atmanirbhar Bharat initiative. By tapping into the discipline and technical skills of ex-servicemen, the country can enhance its self-reliance while ensuring financial security for its veterans.
With strong pension reforms, employment reservations, and resettlement initiatives, the Indian government continues to uphold its commitment to ex-servicemen. These policies not only secure the financial future of military veterans but also enable them to contribute to the nation’s growth and security in their post-service careers.
This information was provided by Secretary of State for Defence Sanjay Seth in a written reply to Devesh Shakya in Lok Sabha on March 28.
