Bihar Government Increases Monetary Rewards for Gallantry Award Winners
Bihar Government Increases Monetary Rewards for Gallantry Award Winners. The Bihar government has significantly increased the monetary rewards for gallantry award winners, reaffirming its commitment to honoring the bravery and sacrifices of armed forces personnel from the state. Under the revised policy, recipients of India’s Param Vir Chakra will now receive ₹1 crore, a remarkable jump from the previous ₹10 lakh, according to an official statement released on Saturday.
The decision comes as part of Bihar’s broader initiative to support armed forces personnel and their families while enhancing welfare infrastructure across the state.
Bihar Government Increases Monetary Rewards for Gallantry Award Winners
Revised Rewards for Gallantry Award Winners
The Bihar government has issued a notification detailing the increased monetary rewards for various gallantry awards. The highlights of the changes are:
| Award | Previous Reward (₹) | Revised Reward (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Param Vir Chakra | 10 lakh | 1 crore |
| Ashok Chakra | 8 lakh | 75 lakh |
| Mahaveer Chakra | 5 lakh | 50 lakh |
| Kirti Chakra | 4 lakh | 10 lakh |
| Veer Chakra | 2 lakh | 9 lakh |
| Shaurya Chakra | 1.5 lakh | 8 lakh |
| Army, Navy, Air Force Medals | 75,000 | 7 lakh |
| Mention in Dispatches | 50,000 | 6 lakh |
This historic revision underscores Bihar’s respect for gallantry and valor, aligning the rewards with the immense sacrifices made by the armed forces.
Commitment to Soldier Welfare
Bihar’s Home Secretary, Arvind Kumar Chaudhary, emphasized the government’s dedication to the welfare of armed forces personnel and ex-servicemen.
- The state has announced the opening of 12 new district soldier welfare offices within the next six months.
- These offices will add to the existing 13 district soldier welfare offices, enabling better outreach and support for soldiers and their families.
This initiative ensures timely assistance and improved welfare services across Bihar.
Ex-Gratia for Martyrs’ Families
In addition to rewarding gallantry awardees, the Bihar government has also enhanced the ex-gratia compensation:
- Families of army personnel and Central Armed Police Forces (CAPF) personnel from Bihar who are martyred will now receive ₹21 lakh, up from the earlier ₹11 lakh.
- Importantly, for soldiers martyred in Bihar but not residents of the state, their families will also be eligible for the ₹21 lakh compensation.
This move highlights Bihar’s inclusive approach to honoring sacrifices, irrespective of the soldier’s native state.
Statements from Chief Minister Nitish Kumar
On the occasion of Armed Forces Flag Day, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar extended his greetings to the armed forces, ex-servicemen, and their families.
- The CM urged citizens to contribute generously to the Armed Forces Flag Day fund.
- He reiterated the government’s commitment to supporting families of brave soldiers who defend the sovereignty and integrity of the country.
Significance of the Decision
The Bihar government’s decision has far-reaching implications:
- Recognizing Valor
- By increasing rewards, the state honors the courage and dedication of armed forces personnel.
- Financial Support to Families
- Enhanced monetary rewards and ex-gratia amounts provide financial stability to the families of gallantry awardees and martyrs.
- Motivating Youth
- The initiative encourages the younger generation to join the armed forces and serve the nation with pride.
- Strengthening Welfare Infrastructure
- The establishment of 12 new district soldier welfare offices will improve access to welfare schemes and services for soldiers and ex-servicemen.
Impact on Armed Forces Personnel and Families
The revised policies will bring immense relief and recognition to the armed forces personnel and their families:
- Financial Security: Larger rewards ensure the well-being of gallantry awardees and kin of martyrs.
- State Recognition: The increased support reaffirms the state’s gratitude for their bravery and sacrifices.
- Improved Welfare Services: New district offices will streamline soldier welfare initiatives, reducing bureaucratic delays.
Bihar’s Vision for Armed Forces Welfare
Under Chief Minister Nitish Kumar’s leadership, Bihar is taking proactive steps to prioritize the welfare of armed forces personnel:
- Increasing monetary incentives for gallantry.
- Enhancing ex-gratia payments for martyrs.
- Expanding welfare infrastructure through district soldier welfare offices.
These initiatives align with Bihar’s vision to respect, support, and empower soldiers and their families, fostering a sense of pride and security.
Conclusion
The Bihar government’s decision to increase monetary rewards for gallantry award winners and ex-gratia amounts for martyrs’ families is a landmark step. It reflects the state’s unwavering commitment to recognizing the sacrifices of its brave soldiers.
By enhancing rewards, opening new district welfare offices, and encouraging public support through initiatives like the Armed Forces Flag Day fund, Bihar is setting an example for other states to follow. This move not only honors valor but also strengthens the bond between the government, soldiers, and the citizens they protect.
Key Highlights
- Param Vir Chakra awardees to receive ₹1 crore.
- Ex-gratia compensation increased to ₹21 lakh for martyrs’ families.
- 12 new district soldier welfare offices to be operational within six months.
- Government emphasizes financial stability and recognition for armed forces personnel.
