JAMMU: The Ex. Central Paramilitary Forces Welfare Association, J&K (UT) held a press conference in Gandhi Nagar, Jammu, under the leadership of General Secretary D.K. Chauhan and Chairman Mahesh Sharma, along with members of the Ex-Servicemen Fight for Rights Group. The association raised long-pending demands concerning the welfare of retired paramilitary personnel and highlighted various disparities and issues affecting them.
One of the major concerns highlighted in the press conference was the disparity in family pensions. As per the 7th Pay Commission, the family pension for retired widows has been increased to Rs 58,000 per month, whereas the family pension for paramilitary jawans has been fixed at just Rs 9,000 per month. The association strongly condemned this unjust discrepancy and urged the government to bring parity in pensions.
The association also pointed out discrimination in the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme. When OROP was implemented in 2014, jawans and junior commissioned officers (JCOs) were given a fitment factor of 2.57, while officers received a higher fitment factor of 2.81. This unfair distinction has led to financial hardship for lower-ranked personnel, and the association demands equal pension benefits across all ranks.
Another pressing issue is the implementation of the 8th Pay Commission. While the Union Government has announced the formation of the commission, it has not yet disclosed the names of the committee members. The association emphasized that the new pay commission should address the shortcomings of the 6th and 7th pay commissions, which had major disparities affecting retired paramilitary personnel. The government was urged to ensure transparency and involve stakeholders to create an employee-friendly commission.
The rising cost of living and medical expenses was another significant concern raised. While serving personnel remain physically fit, retirees above 60 years often suffer from various health issues. The cost of medicines and medical tests has skyrocketed, making healthcare inaccessible for many retired paramilitary personnel. The association urged the government to introduce financial relief measures that would help retirees cover medical expenses and essential healthcare services.
Additionally, the association demanded the establishment of a Common Central Police Canteen (CPC) for all paramilitary forces. They urged the Director Generals (DGs) of all paramilitary forces to ensure that retired personnel have access to essential commodities and welfare benefits without traveling long distances. A centralized canteen system would greatly benefit retirees, allowing them to access subsidized goods and services easily.
The Ex-Servicemen Welfare Association of J&K strongly urged the Union Government to address these pressing issues and introduce necessary reforms without delay. The association called for equal treatment, fair pension policies, improved healthcare access, and welfare measures for retired paramilitary personnel who have dedicated their lives to serving the nation.
Others present in the press conference include Harbans Lal SharmaâVice President, Noor MohammadâGeneral Secretary, District Samba, Inspector Yash Pal (ITBP), Jagan Nath (SSB), NK/Sub Ajeet Singh and Karan Jeet Singh. The association expressed hope that the government would take swift action to resolve these long-pending demands and ensure justice for retired paramilitary personnel.
