New Delhi: India’s Defence Minister, Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh, has taken a significant step to bring Diwali cheer to the nation’s veterans by directing the Ministry of Defence to expedite the release of the third instalment of One Rank One Pension (OROP) payments. This move is set to benefit Defence Pensioners receiving pensions through the SPARSH System, ensuring they receive their dues before the festive occasion of Diwali.
The OROP scheme, which was implemented to rectify discrepancies in pension disbursements for veterans of the Indian armed forces, has been a matter of concern for many. The decision to release the third instalment of OROP payments before Diwali is a testimony to the government’s commitment to honoring the nation’s veterans.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh announced this significant development through a social media post, where he expressed his dedication to ensuring that Defence Pensioners receive their long-awaited dues promptly. Singh’s statement read, “I am pleased to announce that the Ministry of Defence has been directed to release the third instalment of OROP payments to the Defence Pensioners drawing pensions through the SPARSH System, well before the joyous festival of Diwali.”
This directive ensures that the banks and other agencies responsible for disbursing OROP payments are aligned with the Defence Ministry’s mission to provide timely and hassle-free pension disbursements. This proactive approach aims to alleviate the financial concerns of Defence Pensioners, enabling them to celebrate Diwali with their families without any financial worries.
The One Rank One Pension scheme, introduced in 2015, is a historic initiative that addresses the long-standing demand of military veterans for uniform pension benefits, regardless of the date of their retirement. The scheme has been progressively implemented, with the Defence Ministry’s ongoing commitment to resolving any issues and ensuring that all eligible veterans receive their dues.
Raksha Mantri Rajnath Singh’s directive to release the third instalment of OROP payments is indeed a gesture of goodwill and respect towards the valiant men and women who have dedicated their lives to protecting the nation. It reflects the government’s continuous efforts to improve the welfare of Defence Pensioners and honor their invaluable service to the country.
As the country prepares to celebrate Diwali, this announcement brings a ray of hope and gratitude to Defence Pensioners, assuring them that their government stands firmly behind them in their well-deserved quest for equitable pension benefits. This step reaffirms India’s commitment to its veterans and their families, ensuring that they can partake in the festival of lights with peace and joy in their hearts.
