Raksha Mantri Approves 100% Increase in Financial Assistance for Ex-Servicemen & Their Dependents

Key Takeaway

The Government of India has doubled the financial assistance under three major welfare schemes for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents, effective November 1, 2025. This enhancement reflects a strengthened social security net and the nation’s commitment to honouring veterans’ service and sacrifice.

Overview

On October 15, 2025, the Press Information Bureau (PIB) Delhi announced that Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh has approved a 100% increase in financial assistance under the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare’s schemes, administered by the Kendriya Sainik Board. These enhancements will benefit non-pensioner ESM, widows over 65 years without regular income, and dependent children. The additional annual outlay of around ₹257 crore will be drawn from the Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund, a subset of the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF).

Details of the Enhanced Grants

1. Penury Grant

• Previous Rate: ₹4,000 per month
• Revised Rate: ₹8,000 per month
• Beneficiaries:
  • Aged, non-pensioner Ex-Servicemen
  • Widows above 65 years with no regular income
• Purpose: Provides sustained, lifetime support to vulnerable veterans and their widows.

2. Education Grant

• Previous Rate: ₹1,000 per month per head
• Revised Rate: ₹2,000 per month per head
• Beneficiaries:
  • Up to two dependent children (from Class I to Graduation)
  • Widows pursuing a two-year postgraduate course
• Purpose: Assists with educational expenses and encourages higher studies among dependents.

3. Marriage Grant

• Previous Rate: ₹50,000 per beneficiary
• Revised Rate: ₹1,00,000 per beneficiary
• Beneficiaries:
  • Up to two daughters of Ex-Servicemen
  • Widows remarrying after issuance of this order
• Purpose: Supports marriage expenses, easing financial burden at key life events.

Effective Date and Financial Implication

• Effective From: Applications submitted on or after November 1, 2025
• Annual Budget Impact: Approximately ₹257 crore from the AFFDF

Significance for Veterans and Dependents

This decision marks a significant boost in the social security framework for Ex-Servicemen and their families:

• Enhanced Livelihood Security: The Penury Grant ensures that older, non-pensioner veterans and their widows receive a dignified living allowance.
• Educational Empowerment: Doubling the Education Grant empowers children and widowed veterans to pursue schooling and higher education without undue financial stress.
• Life Milestone Support: Raising the Marriage Grant relieves families of substantial wedding costs, reflecting respect for veterans’ personal lives.

Application Process

1. Check Eligibility: Verify age, income status, and relationship to Ex-Servicemen.
2. Gather Documents:
   • Identity and service discharge certificates
   • Income proof or pension status
   • Educational enrollment proof (for Education Grant)
   • Marriage invitation or registration (for Marriage Grant)
3. Submit Application: Through the Kendriya Sainik Board’s state veterans’ welfare office or online portal after November 1, 2025.
4. Await Sanction: Processing timelines vary by state; track status via official channels.

Government’s Commitment

By doubling these grants, the government reaffirms its pledge to stand by veterans who have served the nation. The enhanced assistance not only addresses immediate financial needs but also invests in long-term welfare, education, and dignity of Ex-Servicemen and their dependents.

Download Official Press Release

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