How is TN Enhancing Pension Benefits for Freedom Fighters and Their Descendants?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- The Tamil Nadu government has increased pensions for freedom fighters and their descendants.
- Special pensions for descendants now stand at Rs 11,000 monthly.
- Freedom fighters' pensions have been raised to Rs 22,000 monthly.
- Dependants' pensions have also been revised to Rs 12,000 monthly.
- This initiative reflects the government's commitment to honoring historical sacrifices.
Chennai, Sep 18 (NationPress) In a significant move to honor the legacy of India's freedom struggle, the Tamil Nadu government has announced an increase in the pension benefits provided to freedom fighters and the descendants of prominent leaders who significantly contributed to the independence movement.
This decision aligns with Chief Minister M.K. Stalin's promise made on Independence Day, August 15, this year.
The State government has released official orders to raise the 'special pension' awarded to the descendants of notable figures such as the Sivagangai Marudhu Pandiar Brothers, Veerapandia Kattabomman, Mannar Muthuramalinga Vijaya Raghunatha Sethupathy of Ramanathapuram, and V.O. Chidambaranar.
The special pension has been increased by Rs 500, elevating it from Rs 10,500 to Rs 11,000 per month. This enhanced rate is effective retroactively from August 15, coinciding with the nation’s 79th Independence Day celebrations.
Beneficiaries, who are direct descendants of these legendary figures of resistance against colonial rule, will continue to receive this pension for their lifetime.
Furthermore, the government has also approved a rise in the monthly 'State pension' for freedom fighters themselves. This pension has been increased by Rs 1,000, moving from Rs 21,000 to Rs 22,000 per month. This enhancement underlines the government's commitment to ensuring greater financial security for the living freedom fighters who played a vital role in India's independence.
The family pension for dependants of freedom fighters has also been revised. The order states that the monthly pension for dependants will increase from Rs 11,500 to Rs 12,000.
This initiative, according to officials, guarantees that families of deceased freedom fighters are supported with dignity and recognized for the sacrifices made by their ancestors.
The Tamil Nadu government has persistently taken measures to acknowledge the invaluable contributions of the state’s leaders and freedom fighters to India’s independence. The latest pension increase is perceived as a continuation of this policy of respect and remembrance.