New Delhi: The Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare (DESW), Ministry of Defence, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Quality Council of India (QCI). The agreement, inked on August 26, reaffirms the Ministry’s commitment to “Quality in Service – Dignity for Veterans” by enhancing pension, healthcare, resettlement, and welfare services for over 63 lakh veterans and their families.
Expanding Support for Veterans
Under the MoU, QCI will assist DESW through digital evaluations, impact assessments, and evidence-based policy recommendations. DESW will facilitate data sharing and coordinate with State Governments, Zila Sainik Boards, Armed Forces Headquarters, and empanelled hospitals.
The initiative aims to improve healthcare delivery, widen re-employment and entrepreneurship opportunities, and strengthen institutional frameworks of State and District Sainik Boards.
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Focus on Technology and Service Optimization
At the signing ceremony, Secretary (DESW) Dr. Niten Chandra stressed the role of digital platforms, AI applications, and social media in reaching veterans more effectively. He said the collaboration with QCI would improve system efficiency, enable monitoring, and ensure evidence-based enhancements across veteran welfare schemes.
Signing Ceremony
The MoU was signed by Joint Secretary & OSD, DESW, Dr. P.P. Sharma, and Secretary General, QCI, Chakravarthy Kannan. Senior officials from DESW, Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme, Kendriya Sainik Board, Service Headquarters, and the National Accreditation Board for Hospitals and Healthcare Providers were also present.