Dhumal announces slew of benefits for ex-servicemen

Chandigarh, Sep 23 (UNI) Himachal Pradesh Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal today announced a slew of benefits for ex-servicemen in the state.

He was addressing the annual Civil Military Liaison Conference (CMLC) held by the Western Command jointly with Himachal Pradesh government at Chandimandir.

Speaking on the occasion, the Chief Minister announced that in addition to the already ongoing welfare measures, the state government has taken a decision to increase the margin money on loans to ex-servicemen from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000.

The government has also enhanced the financial assistance being provided to the disabled paraplegic and destitute ex-servicemen from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 out of the Special Fund for Reconstruction and Rehabilitation of Ex-servicemen, he said.

The HP government had recently also taken a decision to enhance the rates of financial assistance being granted to the Second World War Veterans Widows from Rs 200 to Rs 500 per month, Mr Dhumal informed.

The government departments have also been directed to ensure prescribed quota of reservation (15 per cent) in employment in government jobs at all levels for the ex-servicemen, he added.

In his inaugural address, the CM also lauded the role of the armed forces and stated that he was proud of the traditional bonds that existed between the armed forces, people and the H P government.

Earlier, in his welcome address, Lt Gen TK Sapru, GOC-in-C, Western Command said the Army would always be there to assist the civil administration in every possible way and expressed satisfaction at the close rapport that existed between the HP government and the armed forces.

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