Raman-Charpak Fellowship 2026

This scheme offers financial support to widows of ex-servicemen, helping them gain new skills through vocational training Read More... to become self-reliant. Read less

Details

The Indian government is committed to supporting the families of its brave soldiers. Under the RMEWF (Rastriya Miltary Education Welfare Fund), a special scheme is in place to help widows of ex-servicemen become financially independent.

What Is This Scheme?

This scheme, called 'Financial Assistance for Vocational Training of Widows of Ex-Servicemen (ESM)', is designed to provide a financial boost to widows of former military personnel. The goal is to equip them with practical job skills through vocational training, empowering them to earn a livelihood.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

This initiative is specifically for widows of ex-servicemen. To be eligible, their late spouse must have held a rank up to Havildar or its equivalent in the armed forces.

Why This Scheme Is Important

By providing financial assistance for vocational training, the scheme aims to enhance the employability and economic independence of widows of ex-servicemen. This support helps them secure a stable future for themselves and their families after their husbands have served the nation.

Objective

This scheme offers financial support to widows of ex-servicemen, helping them gain new skills through vocational training to become self-reliant.

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 spouse's rank should be Havildar or equivalent.
You must have successfully completed a vocational training course from a recognised institution.
Your spouse's service details must be clearly recorded in their service book.
You need to be recommended by your local Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) and the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB).

How To Apply

The application process involves obtaining recommendations and submitting necessary documents to the relevant authorities. Specific instructions and the application form can usually be obtained from your Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) or Rajya Sainik Board (RSB).

For detailed guidance and to find the correct application procedure, it is advisable to contact your nearest Zila Sainik Board or visit the official website of the Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare, Ministry of Defence.

Contact Details for Zila Sainik Boards can be found at: https://desw.gov.in/state-role-state-headquarters

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 the vocational training.
Your bank account details, including account number and IFSC Code. Please ensure the account is with Punjab National Bank (PNB) or State Bank of India (SBI) only.

FAQ’s

Who is eligible to apply for this financial assistance?

This scheme is for widows of ex-servicemen whose spouses held a rank up to Havildar or its equivalent in the armed forces. You must have also completed vocational training.

How much financial help can I get?

You can receive a one-time financial assistance of up to ₹50,000 for completing your vocational training successfully.

When will I receive the financial assistance?

The financial aid is provided only after you have successfully completed your vocational training course.

Is this a recurring financial aid?

No, this is a one-time grant. You receive the financial assistance only once upon completion of the vocational training.

Do I need to undergo vocational training to get the money?

Yes, completing a vocational training course from a recognised institution is a mandatory requirement to be eligible for the financial assistance.

Where can I do my vocational training?

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

Is it necessary for me to be employed after training?

Yes, you need to be gainfully employed after completing your training. A certificate from the Zila Sainik Welfare Office (ZSWO) will be required to confirm this.

Do I need a recommendation to apply?

Yes, a recommendation from your local Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) and the Rajya Sainik Board (RSB) is a crucial part of the application process.

How will the financial assistance be paid to me?

The financial assistance will be directly credited to your bank account after your application is approved.

Which banks are acceptable for receiving the payment?

The financial assistance can only be paid to bank accounts held with Punjab National Bank (PNB) or the State Bank of India (SBI).