Chhattisgarh Boosts Benefits for Soldiers and Families: Ex-Gratia Doubles to Rs 50 Lakh
In a big move to honor the bravery of our armed forces, the Chhattisgarh government has approved a major hike in financial support for soldiers and their loved ones. Families of soldiers who lose their lives in battles or military operations will now get Rs 50 lakh as ex-gratia, up from the previous Rs 20 lakh. And for heroes who win the highest gallantry award, the Param Vir Chakra, the payout jumps to Rs 1 crore from Rs 40 lakh.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai announced these changes during the sixth meeting of the Rajya Sainik Board at Mahanadi Bhavan in Raipur on Monday. "Our soldiers sacrifice everything to keep the nation safe. We salute their courage and stand committed to supporting ex-servicemen and their families," Sai said in a statement. He pointed out that the safety of 140 crore Indians depends on these brave hearts, and it’s our duty to care for them and their dependents.
The meeting focused on welfare schemes for war widows, ex-servicemen, and their families. CM Sai shared that the discussions brought out useful ideas to improve their lives, and the board members’ suggestions will get serious attention.
Here are the key approvals from the Rajya Sainik Board meeting that directly help soldiers’ families and ex-servicemen:
- Battle Casualty Support: Ex-gratia for families of soldiers killed in action rises from Rs 20 lakh to Rs 50 lakh.
- Gallantry Awards Boost: Param Vir Chakra winners now receive Rs 1 crore, a sharp increase from Rs 40 lakh.
- Motivational Grant for Parents: Financial aid for parents of serving soldiers goes up from Rs 5,000 to Rs 20,000.
- Aid for Disabled Soldiers: Assistance for those injured in war or operations increases from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 30 lakh.
On top of that, serving soldiers, ex-servicemen, and war widows can now claim a stamp duty exemption worth up to Rs 25 lakh on their first home or land purchase. This makes buying property easier and more affordable for them.
The meeting kicked off with a warm welcome for the Chief Minister. Chhattisgarh Chief Secretary Amitabh Jain gifted him a sapling as a symbol of growth and care. Brigadier Vivek Sharma (Retd), Director of the Soldiers Welfare Directorate and Secretary of the Rajya Sainik Board, gave a quick update on the board’s ongoing work.
CM Sai also reviewed the progress from the previous meeting on January 13, 2012, before diving into the new agenda. The session saw active participation from top officials, including Deputy CM Vijay Sharma, Raipur MP Brijmohan Agrawal, Lt. Gen. Padam Singh Shekhawat (GOC, Central India Area), Additional Chief Secretary (Home) Manoj Pingua, and other board members like Brigadier D.S. Basera and Major General Sanjay Sharma (Retd).
These steps show Chhattisgarh’s strong push for ex-servicemen welfare, ensuring soldiers and their families get the respect and support they deserve.
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