NewzVille Desk
Defence Minister Rajnath Singh has approved a 100% increase in financial assistance for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents under schemes implemented by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board.
The Penury Grant has been doubled from Rs 4,000 to Rs 8,000 per month per beneficiary, providing lifetime support to aged and non-pensioner ESM and their widows above 65 years of age with no regular income.
The Education Grant has been increased from Rs 1,000 to Rs 2,000 per month per head for up to two dependent children (from Class I to Graduation) or widows pursuing a two-year postgraduate course.
The Marriage Grant has been raised from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000 per beneficiary, applicable for up to two daughters of ESM and for widow remarriage, for marriages solemnized after the issuance of this order.
The revised rates will take effect for applications submitted from November 1, 2025, with an annual financial implication of approximately Rs 257 crore, to be met from the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF).
This decision strengthens the social security net for non-pensioner ESM, widows, and dependents from lower-income groups, reaffirming the Government’s commitment to honouring the service and sacrifice of veterans.
