Defence Minister addresses the XXVIII meeting of the Kendriya Sainik Board

The Defence Minister, Shri A. K. Antony with the Minister of State for Defence Shri M.M. Pallam Raju and the Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Uttarakhand and Delhi at the inaugural function of the 28 Meeting of Kendriya Sainik Board, in New Delhi on January 07, 2009.

Concrete Welfare Measures or Policy Statements? Repetition of same goals!

The pension criterion for the grant of financial assistance under Raksha Mantri Discretionery Fund has now been removed and all ex-servicemen up to the rank of Hawaldar, or equivalents in Navy and Air Force have been made eligible.

It is our national responsibility to provide them ample and equal opportunities for re-employment and resettlement. This would enable them to continue leading a quality life - in thought and action.’

Shri Antony said ‘I once again strongly urge all State Governments, to make full use of the services of ex-servicemen for mutual benefit. More so, in the prevailing security scenario, in particular, their services must be optimally utilised in strengthening and upgrading the security apparatus.’

Synergy between the defence services and the private sector must be harnessed increasingly for the benefit of our society and the nation. He said the private sector must also do its utmost to help the society and the nation to promote the welfare and resettlement of the ex-servicemen.

Referring to the crucial role played by Kendriya Sainik Board in the resettlement of Ex-Servicemen Shri Antony said, though the Board has a widespread reach, unfortunately it has not been able to make full use of it in a planned and coordinated manner.

Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme for ex-servicemen, he said it is the endeavour of the Government to extend the health care to ex-servicemen in the remotest of areas. He made a suggestion that these polyclinics be set up alongside the Rajya and Zila Sainik Board offices, so that all facilities are available within the same complex. Shri Antony made an appeal to State Governments to provide necessary assistance in land acquisition and construction of polyclinics so that the scheme becomes fully operational at the earliest.

Kendriya Sainik Board has unanimously recommended 100 percent training facilities to the retiring armed forces personnel so as to facilitate their smooth transition from military active duty to civil employment.
Several new welfare schemes for ex-servicemen announced
Pallam Raju asks Sainik Boards, State Govts to give more jobs to ex-servicemen
Comment: What are the concrete welfare measures enumerated by KSB's? How is collection and increasing Armed Forces Flag Day Fund going to improve the welfare of ESM?