Freedom fighters to get 'Sammanpatras' on October two

New Delhi, Aug 29 (UNI) Recognising their role in achieving independence from the British yoke, the Centre today decided to confer 'Sammanpatras' on the living freedom fighters who are receiving "Central Samman Pension." A meeting of the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh, today decided to distribute 'Sammanpatras' to a maximum of 20,000 people initially.

The first batch would receive the 'Sammanpatras' on October two, the birth anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.

Science and Technology Minister Kapil Sibal told mediapersons after the meeting that the nation owed an immense debt of gratitude to freedom fighters whose sacrifices sustained India's freedom struggle and secured its independence.

"While these cannot be materially compensated, a special gesture of recognition is a fitting tribute to the freedom fighters," he said.

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