Agartala, May 19: The Tripura Government has introduced a new scheme under the state budget to provide social pensions to unmarried and dependent sons and daughters (above 18 years) of permanent residents serving in the Indian Army or Central Armed Police Forces (CAPFs).
Chief Minister Dr. Manik Saha announced the scheme during the 29th meeting of the Rajya Sainik Board, held at the Secretariat’s Conference Hall on Monday. An allocation of Rs. 2.4 crore has been made for the initiative in the state budget, according to an official press release.
During the meeting, the Chief Minister also directed the Department of Sainik Welfare to collect data on ex-servicemen interested in venturing into MSMEs, startups, animal husbandry, and fisheries. He said a dedicated policy would be framed to support these efforts.
To support ex-servicemen and their families, Dr. Saha announced coaching programs for Information Technology roles and preparation for competitive exams like TCS (Tripura Civil Service) and TPSC (Tripura Public Service Commission). He also stressed the need to renovate the Rajya Sainik Rest House to improve facilities for veterans.
Retired Captain Paramjit Singh, Director of the Department of Sainik Welfare, presented a detailed report on welfare programs and reviewed progress on decisions taken during the previous board meeting. He also introduced new proposals for consideration.
Key issues discussed included:
- Skill development training for ex-servicemen and dependents
- Enhancement of gallantry and service award amounts
- Increased ex-gratia grants for families of martyred or disabled soldiers
- Tax exemptions and increased job reservations for ex-servicemen
- Expansion of the Integrated Sainik Complex
The meeting was attended by MLA Swapna Das Paul, Chief Secretary J.K. Sinha, DGP Anurag, and several senior officials.
