Indian Military Veterans

Ex-Servicemen (ESM) - Welfare Schemes : A Comprehensive Overview

Welfare schemes for Exservicemen and widows

India holds its Ex-Servicemen (ESM) in the highest regard, recognizing their immense contribution to national security and welfare. To honor their service and support their post-retirement life, the Government of India has introduced a wide array of welfare schemes. These initiatives are channeled through the Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR) and the Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) under the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence.

Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the major welfare schemes designed to uplift the lives of ESM and their dependents:

1. Financial Assistance for Penury and Need

• Monthly Financial Assistance (Rs. 4,000): Offered to non-pensioner ESM and their widows above 65 years.
• Support to Orphan Children: Rs. 1,000 per month per child (up to two children).
• House Repair Grant: One-time aid of Rs. 20,000 for ESM/widows.
• Funeral Grant: Rs. 8,000 to assist in funeral-related expenses.

2. Educational Support

• Education Grants for wards and widows : Rs. 1,000 per month upto graduation level.
• PMSS Scholarship : Rs. 2,500 per month for tech/med education at Graduation level.
• Vocational Training Support: For widows and dependents to gain employable skills.
• Scholarships: Available through various schemes like the PM Scholarship Scheme (PMSS).

3. Health and Medical Welfare

• Medical Grants: Financial assistance for non-pensioners for serious diseases.
• Modified Scooter Grant: For severely disabled soldiers.
• Daughter’s Marriage or Widow’s Remarriage Grant: Rs. 50,000 offered as one-time aid.

4. Employment and Resettlement

• DGR Resettlement Training Programs: Includes Security Agency training, management courses, ITI skills, etc.
• Placement Assistance: DGR coordinates with private and public sector employers to provide job opportunities.
• Security Agency Scheme: Empowers ESM officers to run private security firms.

5. Institutional Support and Rehabilitation

• Queen Mary’s Technical Institute (QMTI), Pune: Offers technical training to disabled soldiers.
• War Memorial Hostels (WMHs): Provide free/ subsidized lodging for children of ESM near educational institutions.
• Zila Sainik Boards (ZSBs): Local support hubs providing real-time help to ESM and families.

6. Housing and Shelter Support

• Financial aid for house construction: Limited support provided through KSB in special cases.
• Relief for Natural Calamities: ESM affected by natural disasters may be eligible for immediate grants.

7. Widow and Dependent Support

• Widow’s Welfare Fund: Support through grants, training, and employment linkage.
• Children of Widows: Priority in scholarships, hostel admissions, and training.

8. Additional Welfare Schemes

• Resettlement through Entrepreneurship: Guidance and training for those starting small businesses.
• Ex-servicemen Contributory Health Scheme (ECHS): Quality healthcare through a wide network of empaneled hospitals.

Conclusion

These welfare schemes reflect the nation’s unwavering gratitude toward its soldiers. From financial assistance to health, education, employment, and housing, these initiatives ensure that no Ex-Serviceman or their family is left behind. For detailed information or to apply, ESM and their families are encouraged to visit the nearest Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) or the official websites of KSB and DGR.