Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh has approved a 100% increase in financial assistance for Ex-Servicemen (ESM) and their dependents under welfare schemes implemented by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board.

Under the revised structure, the Penury Grant has been doubled from ?4,000 to ?8,000 per month per beneficiary, offering sustained lifetime support to aged and non-pensioner ESM and their widows above 65 years with no regular income. The Education Grant has been raised from ?1,000 to ?2,000 per month per child for up to two dependent children (from Class I to Graduation) or widows pursuing a two-year postgraduate course. Similarly, the Marriage Grant has been enhanced from ?50,000 to ?1 lakh per beneficiary, applicable for up to two daughters of ESM and for widow remarriage, for marriages solemnised after the issuance of this order.

The revised rates will come into effect for applications submitted from November 1, 2025, onwards. The move will have an annual financial implication of approximately ?257 crore, to be met from the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF) through the Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund.

The decision aims to strengthen 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 the nation’s veterans.