Punjab Government has undertaken transformative initiatives in 2024 to honour the sacrifices of soldiers and ensure the welfare of ex-servicemen and their families. Defence Services Welfare Minister Mohinder Bhagat on Friday emphasized the Government’s unwavering commitment to the Armed Forces community. 

Among the major reforms, the monthly grant for Blue Star-affected Dharmi Faujis has been increased from Rs 10,000 to Rs 12,000, ensuring enhanced financial stability for affected families. Similarly, ex-gratia payments for disabled soldiers have been doubled, now ranging from Rs 10 lakh to Rs 40 lakh based on the level of disability, reflecting Punjab’s dedication to its brave servicemen. 

Under the War Jagir Scheme, annual assistance has been doubled to Rs 20,000, and financial aid for non-pensioned World War I and II veterans and their widows over 65 has been raised from Rs 6,000 to Rs 10,000 per month, ensuring a dignified life for aging war heroes. 

In heartfelt tributes, the government honoured 65 families of Operation Vijay martyrs and 114 martyrs of Operation Pawan in grand ceremonies at Amritsar and Ludhiana.

Efforts to inspire patriotism included a month-long cycle rally across Punjab, culminating at the War Memorial in Chandigarh, instilling pride and unity among citizens. Employment support was also prioritized, with 14 dependents of martyrs offered government jobs under the Honour and Gratitude Policy. Over two years, 13 percent of direct recruitment posts — totaling 2,044 — were reserved for ex-servicemen and their families. 

Administrative reforms included introducing new service rules for Group B and C officers and recruiting five District Defence Services Welfare Officers. Additionally, the SPARSH Camp facilitated pension processes for 1,691 ex-servicemen and their families.