Raman-Charpak Fellowship 2026

This scheme offers financial help to widows of ex-servicemen (ESM) to support their vocational training and promote Read More... self-reliance. Read less

Details

The Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, under the Ministry of Defence, has introduced a special scheme to empower widows of ex-servicemen (ESM). This initiative aims to equip these women with vocational skills, making them more self-reliant and financially independent.

What is the RMEWF Financial Assistance Scheme?

The 'Financial Assistance for Vocational Training of Widows of Ex-Servicemen (ESM)' scheme is designed to provide a helping hand to widows of former military personnel. Managed by the Kendriya Sainik Board, it offers financial aid for vocational training courses, enabling them to acquire new skills.

Who Can Benefit?

This scheme is specifically for widows whose husbands served as ex-servicemen (ESM). It's a key support for those looking to enhance their career prospects through skill development.

Why This Scheme Matters

The scheme plays a crucial role in helping the families of our brave soldiers find stability and independence. By funding vocational training, it opens doors for widows to secure better employment opportunities and build a secure future for themselves.

Objective

This scheme offers financial help to widows of ex-servicemen (ESM) to support their vocational training and promote self-reliance.

Benefits

To and fro air ticket in economy class between India and France.
Insurance coverage (travel & health) wherever is required & Carte de Sejour (if any).
Any administrative costs for Visa and Registration (if any).
Support for attending conferences/seminars/workshops during the stay.

Value of Fellowship for Indian Fellow:

Fellowship Support of 1500 Euros per month for daily expenses, local travel, accommodation charges plus Social Security charges.

Value of Fellowship for French Fellow:

Fellowship support ₹40,000/- per month for daily expenses, local travel, etc. plus accommodation charges not exceeding ₹45,000/- per month.

Sources and references

Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria

You must be the widow of an ex-serviceman (ESM).
Your late spouse should have held a rank up to Havildar or its equivalent.
You need to have successfully completed a vocational training course from an institution recognized for its training programs.
The details of your spouse should be properly recorded in the ESM's service book.
Your application must be recommended by the respective Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) and Rajya Sainik Board (RSB).

How To Apply

The application process typically involves the following steps:

Complete your vocational training from a recognized institution.
Obtain the necessary certificates and documents as proof of training completion and employment.
Get your application recommended by your local Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) and Rajya Sainik Board (RSB).
Submit the complete application with all required documents. The specific submission details and any application forms can usually be obtained from the ZSB/RSB offices or the Kendriya Sainik Board.(Please refer to the official Kendriya Sainik Board website for the most current application procedures and submission addresses.)

Documents Required

A complete copy of the Service Discharge Certificate or Service Book of the ex-serviceman.
A copy of your Widow I-Card.
A certificate from the training institute confirming the successful completion of your vocational course.
A certificate from the Zila Sainik Welfare Office (ZSWO) stating that you are gainfully employed after completing your vocational training.
Your Bank Account details, including the Account Number and IFS Code. The account must be in either Punjab National Bank (PNB) or State Bank of India (SBI).

FAQ’s

What is the maximum financial assistance I can receive for vocational training?

You can receive a one-time financial assistance of up to ₹50,000/- for your vocational training under this scheme.

If I complete my training, when will I get the financial aid?

The financial assistance is provided only after you have successfully completed your vocational training program.

Can I apply if my husband was a Havildar in the Army?

Yes, widows of ex-servicemen whose spouses held a rank up to Havildar or the equivalent rank are eligible to apply for this scheme.

Does this scheme provide ongoing financial support, or is it a one-time grant?

The financial assistance provided under this scheme is a one-time grant and is not recurring.

Is it mandatory to complete vocational training to get financial help?

Yes, completing a vocational training course is a mandatory requirement to be eligible for the financial assistance under this scheme.

Where am I allowed to do my vocational training?

You can undertake your vocational training at recognized institutions such as Industrial Training Institutes (ITIs), centers run by Zila Sainik Boards (ZSB) / Rajya Sainik Boards (RSB), or other reputed private training institutes.

After completing my training, do I need to be employed?

Yes, you need to be gainfully employed after completing your vocational training. This employment status needs to be certified.

Do I need approval from any local Sainik boards to apply?

Yes, it is essential to get a recommendation from your respective Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) and Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) to be considered for this scheme.

How will the financial assistance be paid to me?

Once your application is approved, the financial assistance will be directly transferred to your bank account.

Which banks should I use for my bank account to receive the funds?

You must have a bank account in either Punjab National Bank (PNB) or State Bank of India (SBI) to receive the financial assistance.