MP hikes pensions, aid for martyrs’ families, veterans
Chief Minister Dr Mohan Yadav on Friday announced enhanced welfare measures for soldiers, veterans and the families of martyrs, saying the Madhya Pradesh government was committed to ensuring financial security, dignity and timely support for those who serve the nation.
Addressing the State Soldiers’ Rally in Ujjain virtually from the state hangar in Bhopal, Dr Yadav said soldiers not only protect India’s borders but also uphold the nation’s pride and self-respect. He paid tribute to those who had laid down their lives in the line of duty and said the government stood firmly with their families. Dr Yadav said the monthly assistance provided to the parents of martyrs had been increased to Rs 10,000. Financial support of Rs 51,000 would be provided for the marriage of martyrs’ daughters and sisters, he said, adding that compensation for dependents of Army and Central Armed Police Forces personnel killed in war or military operations had been enhanced to Rs 1 crore.
The chief minister said the monthly pension for Second World War veterans living in Madhya Pradesh and their spouses had been raised from Rs 8,000 to Rs 15,000, which he described as the highest in the country. He said soldiers decorated with gallantry and distinguished service awards, along with their dependents, receive the highest honorarium from the state government.
Dr Yadav also announced that the annual honorarium for parents residing in Madhya Pradesh whose daughters are serving in the armed forces had been doubled from Rs 10,000 to Rs 20,000. Referring to central leadership, he said Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s compassion and sensitivity towards soldiers were a source of inspiration, and that while the loss of lives could never be fully compensated, governments must ensure dignity, security and opportunity for bereaved families.
He said the Madhya Pradesh Directorate of Soldiers’ Welfare was honoured with the Progressive State Trophy by the Defence Minister in 2025, and that district soldiers’ welfare offices were being strengthened. The upgradation of soldiers’ rest houses was underway, he said, and employment and self-employment opportunities in the state were being expanded.
Dr Yadav expressed hope that the rally would further strengthen national pride and unity and extended advance greetings on the occasion of Republic Day.
The State Soldiers’ Rally in Ujjain brought together serving personnel, veterans and families of martyrs from across the state, with officials outlining welfare schemes and support services available to the defence community.
