In a move that will greatly benefit former service members and their families, the government has approved a substantial 100% increase in financial assistance. These enhanced support measures are being implemented by the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare through the Kendriya Sainik Board.
These revised rates are effective for all applications submitted from November 1, 2025, onwards.
Key changes include a doubling of the Penury Grant, which will now provide ₹8,000 per month per beneficiary, up from the previous ₹4,000. This grant is specifically aimed at supporting aged, non-pensioner ex-servicemen and their widows over 65 years of age who do not have a regular income.
The Education Grant has also seen a significant increase, rising from ₹1,000 to ₹2,000 per month per child. This enhanced grant is applicable for up to two dependent children, covering their education from Class I up to graduation, or for widows pursuing a two-year postgraduate course.
Furthermore, the Marriage Grant has been raised from ₹50,000 to ₹1,00,000 per beneficiary. This increased amount will support marriages for up to two daughters of ex-servicemen, as well as for widow remarriages.
The financial implication for these enhanced schemes is estimated to be around ₹257 crore annually. The funding for these welfare initiatives comes from the Raksha Mantri Ex-Servicemen Welfare Fund, which is a part of the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF).