Jaipur, Oct 31 (NationPress) Rajasthan Governor Haribhau Bagde has sanctioned a range of significant initiatives to bolster the welfare of war veterans, war widows, and their dependents across the state.

During the 18th meeting of the State Military Board held at Raj Bhavan, the Governor stressed the importance of a timely and proactive approach in implementing welfare policies for the community of ex-servicemen.

Among the approved initiatives are the establishment of an old-age home for war veterans in Jaipur, the creation of an integrated military complex in Jodhpur, and a standardized policy for naming educational institutions and public facilities after martyred soldiers.

He instructed officials to fast-track all outstanding matters concerning military welfare, ensuring that implementation is effective, transparent, and compassionate.

"Soldiers protect our nation and allow us to live peacefully. Society owes them a debt of gratitude and must continuously strive for their well-being," remarked the Governor, urging all departments to diligently serve war veterans and their families. The old-age home will be established in Jaipur as part of a time-sensitive plan, and the integrated complex in Jodhpur will see developments at the Military Welfare Department complex in Raika Bagh, with feasibility studies and funding sourced from both Central and state schemes. Additionally, a new Military Welfare Office has received in-principle approval for establishment in Rajgarh, located in Churu district,

Governor Bagde also announced, "Under the uniform naming policy, schools and public spaces will bear the names of martyred soldiers within a designated timeframe. Changes to the honorarium have been approved, increasing payments for soldiers recognized with gallantry awards, drawing inspiration from models used in other states. Strict orders have been given to evict illegal occupants from Veerangna hostels and rehabilitation centres to ensure compliance with existing regulations. Policy revisions have been mandated, directing the colonisation department to update obsolete directives regarding benefits associated with gallantry awards."

Additionally, Governor Bagde introduced the “Sainik Welfare Portal”, designed to automate and streamline welfare programs for war veterans, war widows, and their dependents.

This portal grants online access to various welfare schemes offered by both the state and Central governments.

A dedicated social media platform for war veterans has also been launched to provide real-time updates regarding welfare initiatives, recruitment chances, and government efforts through digital channels, as stated by the Governor.

The Governor presented a detailed information booklet at Raj Bhavan, outlining the welfare schemes managed by the Sainik Welfare Department, including available benefits from both Central and state authorities.

A meeting regarding the amalgamated fund was also conducted, chaired by Governor Bagde.

He approved the income and expenditure of Rs 406.46 lakh and several financial aid proposals, including scholarships for children of war veterans enrolled in military schools and defense training institutes.

During the discussions, Rajasthan Minister Rajyavardhan Singh Rathore reiterated the state government’s commitment to the welfare of ex-servicemen.

He noted that 250 individuals have benefited from the educational recruitment program for ex-servicemen, and 40 war veterans have been selected for the Rajasthan Administrative Service this year.

"Our goal is to ensure that every war veteran has seamless access to employment and welfare information through a unified digital platform," Rathore stated.

Minister of State Vijay Singh Chaudhary, Military Board Chairman Prem Singh Bajor, and Chief Secretary Sudhansh Pant were also in attendance.

The directives and approvals from the Governor represent a significant advancement in strengthening Rajasthan’s welfare framework for war veterans and their families, reinforcing the state's dedication to honoring the sacrifice and service of its soldiers.