Parity Issue

One Rank One Pension - Parity Issue

My father has served Indian Army for 18 years. Throughout his tenure with army he has dedicated each and every moment of life to serve the nation. He was not there when my grandfather passed away; he was not there when his son was suffering from disease. Serving nation was his passion. I proudly say to that I have inherited this quality.   

He got retired from army services in 1991 at the age of 35 with nominal pension, with family to take care. After retirement future were completely in dark. Though the DGR (Director General of Resettlement) is the welfare organization trying their best to place army veterans to place in private sectors.  My father was lucky to be place in department of police through lot of struggle. He was one of those who got opportunity after retirement from army.

On 17^th February 2014, P. Chidambaram has hoisted the green flag to long demanded, much promised never implemented one rank one pension. This move is likely to benefit 25 lakh army veterans who have been fighting for their rights of getting equal remuneration of pensions.

What is this One Rank one pension? One rank one pension was basically a long standing demand by army veterans for equal pension. There is difference between amount of pension paid to retired army personnel who retiree pre 2006 retired and post 2006 retiree.

Every pay commission bumps the salary of government employees and pension of retired personnel remains unchanged. This has widened the gap of those who retire earlier with same length of service and with same rank. This disparity spark after sixth pay commission, those veterans who retired before 1995 were getting 82% less amount of salary those who retired after 2006. And this disparity loaded a discontent among the ex-army personnel.

The veterans began their agitation and surrender 22,000 gallantry awards to the president in protest and in hope to get justice on their disparity issue of pensions.

P. Chidambaram has allocated Rs. 500 crors to bridge the gap of parity. However Rs. 1700-1800 crores required to bridge the gap completely.

UPA - 1 and UPA – 2 had denied the demand of the veterans, the sudden move of the government is to woo the ex-army men for upcoming general election though politically motivated is welcomed by veterans. And it is expected to attract vote bank of 25 lakh veterans and if their family taken into account 2 crores.

There will be republications awaited for next government from retired civil servant as they may demand t to resolve the disparity issues of their pension. This will have heavy financial implications of additional Rs.8000 to 9000 on government treasury.

Altogether, the move of the government on one rank one pension is must welcome as it gives justice to those who dedicate their lives restlessly for serving the nation.

Heartily Congratulation to Army Veterans!

You won the another battle!

Regards

Amol Nakve