The Government is providing comprehensive support to ex-servicemen across the country through pension schemes, skill development programmes, and employment initiatives. In a written reply to the Rajya Sabha today, Union Minister of State for Defence Mr. Sanjay Seth outlined the various welfare measures in place for former armed forces personnel.
Nation Wide Distribution of Ex-Servicemen:
Pension Support and One Rank One Pension (OROP)
The Government is providing pensions to ex-servicemen as per the current rules and regulations. Additionally, the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme has been implemented to ensure parity in pension payments. Under this scheme, ex-servicemen retiring in the same rank with the same length of service receive equal pension benefits, regardless of their date of retirement.
Employment and Skill Development Initiatives
To facilitate post-retirement rehabilitation, the Government is running several skill development and resettlement programmes. These initiatives are designed to equip ex-servicemen with updated skill sets and connect them with employment opportunities in various sectors, including Government organisations, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), Corporate Houses, the Private Sector, and Central Para Military Forces.
Job-oriented training and self-employment schemes are also being promoted to assist ex-servicemen in building sustainable livelihoods after military service.
Nationwide Job Fairs for Ex-Servicemen
As part of its employment outreach, the Government conducts job fairs across the country in collaboration with the Confederation of Indian Industry (CII) and the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industry (FICCI). These events are held with the active support of the three Service Headquarters and serve as a platform for direct interaction between job-seeking ex-servicemen and potential employers.
The job fairs include on-the-spot skill assessments, interviews, and immediate recruitment opportunities offered by participating companies from the corporate sector.
Reservation in Government Jobs and PSUs
In addition to job placement efforts, the Government has instituted reservation policies to ensure fair representation of ex-servicemen in various employment categories. A reservation of 14.5% in Group ‘C’ posts and 24.5% in Group ‘D’ posts has been mandated for ex-servicemen in Central Public Sector Undertakings (CPSUs) and Public Sector Banks (PSBs).
Out of the total reserved vacancies, 4.5% are specifically allocated for disabled ex-servicemen and dependents of service personnel who were killed in action.
Continued Commitment to Veteran Welfare
Mr. Sanjay Seth reaffirmed the Government’s continued commitment to supporting the welfare and reintegration of ex-servicemen into civilian life. Through a combination of financial, professional, and social support mechanisms, the Government seeks to honour the service of India’s veterans and help them lead fulfilling lives post-retirement.
