Bihar's Bold Bet on Soldiers: A Deep Dive into the New Welfare Package on Armed Forces on Flag Day 2024

In a move that is bound to resonate deeply with Bihar's armed forces community and their families, Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has unveiled a comprehensive welfare package that is as substantial as it is timely. The state government's decision to significantly hike ex-gratia grants, gallantry awards, and expand welfare offices is more than just a symbolic gesture; it's a concrete commitment to those who safeguard the nation.

The enhanced financial support, especially for families of martyred soldiers and disabled veterans, is a testament to the state's understanding of the sacrifices made by these brave men and women. By doubling the ex-gratia grant for families of martyrs to ₹21 lakh, Bihar has set a new benchmark among states. This isn't just about numbers; it's about acknowledging the immense loss suffered by these families and providing them with the necessary support to rebuild their lives.

Equally commendable is the substantial increase in cash awards for gallantry award winners. The decision to multiply the award money for Param Veer Chakra recipients, for instance, is a fitting tribute to their unparalleled bravery. These awards are not just monetary rewards but also serve as a source of immense pride for the awardees and their families.

Beyond the financial incentives, the expansion of district-level soldier welfare offices is a strategic move to ensure that benefits reach the beneficiaries efficiently. By increasing the number of these offices from 13 to 25, Bihar is ensuring that no soldier or their family feels neglected or unsupported.

A Broader Perspective

What sets this announcement apart is its alignment with Bihar's broader development trajectory. Under Nitish Kumar's leadership, the state has consistently prioritized inclusive growth. By focusing on the welfare of its armed forces personnel, Bihar is not just fulfilling a moral obligation but also strengthening the bond between the state and its citizens in uniform.

It's worth noting that this announcement comes at a time when many states are grappling with economic challenges. Bihar's decision to prioritize the welfare of its soldiers, despite these challenges, is a testament to the state's commitment to its people.

While these initiatives are undoubtedly a step in the right direction, the true measure of their success will lie in their implementation on the ground. It is crucial that the state government ensures that the benefits reach the intended beneficiaries without any delay or bureaucratic hurdles.

Bihar's latest welfare package for its armed forces personnel is a bold and timely move that underscores the state's commitment to its citizens in uniform. By significantly enhancing financial support, expanding welfare services, and recognizing the sacrifices of its soldiers, Bihar has set a new standard for states across India. This is a story of a state that is not just developing but also deeply honoring those who protect it.

Major Policy Highlights

Enhanced Ex Gratia Grants

The Bihar government has increased financial support for Armed Forces personnel and their families:

● For families of personnel who sacrifice their lives in the line of duty: Ex gratia grant increased from ₹11 lakh to ₹21 lakh.

● For disabled Armed Forces personnel boarded out from service: Grant raised from ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh.

Gallantry Award Cash Benefits Multiplied

Acknowledging the bravery of Armed Forces personnel, the state government has significantly

increased the cash awards for gallantry award winners who are residents of Bihar:

● Param Veer Chakra: From ₹10 lakh to ₹1 crore.

● Ashok Chakra: From ₹8 lakh to ₹75 lakh.

● Mahaveer Chakra: From ₹5 lakh to ₹50 lakh.

● Kirti Chakra: From ₹4 lakh to ₹10 lakh.

● Veer Chakra: From ₹2 lakh to ₹9 lakh.

● Shaurya Chakra: From ₹1.5 lakh to ₹8 lakh.

Meritorious Service and Commendations

Bihar has also raised the cash awards for distinguished service medals and mentions:

● Mention-in-Dispatches: From ₹50,000 to ₹6 lakh.

● Sarvottam Yuddha Sewa Medal: From ₹7 lakh to ₹7.5 lakh.

● Param Vishishta Sewa Medal: From ₹1.5 lakh to ₹4.5 lakh.

● Uttam Yuddha Sewa Medal: From ₹3 lakh to ₹4 lakh.

● Ati Vishishta Sewa Medal: From ₹1 lakh to ₹3.5 lakh.

● Yuddha Sewa Medal: From ₹1 lakh to ₹3 lakh.

● Vishishta Sewa Medal: From ₹50,000 to ₹1 lakh.

Recognition for Military Service Medals

The state has significantly increased cash awards for military service medals:

● Army/Navy/Air Force Medal (Shaurya): From ₹75,000 to ₹7 lakh.

● Army/Navy/Air Force Medal

(Vishishta): From ₹75,000 to ₹2 lakh.