Government Addresses Welfare of Ex-Servicemen's Widows

The government reports that there are 740,766 widows of ex-servicemen in India as of December 31, 2024. Monthly assistance is reviewed based on Pay Commissions' recommendations. Employment opportunities and housing quotas are reserved for widows under welfare measures.

On December 31, 2024, the number of widows of ex-servicemen in India stood at 740,766, as informed by the government to Parliament. Minister of State for Defence Sanjay Seth shared this data while responding to questions in the Rajya Sabha.

The Defence Ministry faced inquiries regarding regular revisions of the monthly assistance provided to these widows. Sanjay Seth clarified that family pensions are subject to reviews influenced by Pay Commissions and can increase through periodic Dearness Relief assessments.

Regarding employment, the government reserves job vacancies for war widows, offering priority in Officer Selection for the Indian Army. Additionally, the Army Welfare Housing Organisation allocates a 3% quota in housing projects for widows.