Did Uttarakhand CM Increase Ex-Gratia for 'Param Vir Chakra' Awardees to Rs 1.5 Crore?

Dehradun, July 26 (NationPress) On this momentous occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami declared a substantial rise in the ex-gratia compensation for India's most esteemed war heroes. Recipients of the Param Vir Chakra, the nation’s highest military accolade, will now be honored with Rs 1.5 crore, marking a threefold increase from the earlier Rs 50 lakh.

Describing this decision as a “symbol of unwavering respect for valour,” CM Dhami affirmed that Uttarakhand is wholeheartedly devoted to the honour, welfare, and dignity of both soldiers and the families of martyrs.

The announcement was made through a post on the social media platform 'X', where the Chief Minister conveyed both gratitude and determination on behalf of the state.

“The ex-gratia given to Param Vir Chakra awardees has been increased from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore. This demonstrates our government’s steadfast commitment to honouring bravery,” CM Dhami shared in his post.

In memory of the courageous soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the Kargil War of 1999, CM Dhami participated in a wreath-laying ceremony at Gandhi Park in Dehradun. The occasion was filled with emotional tributes, floral offerings, and heartfelt gratitude towards the families of the fallen.

The Chief Minister praised the indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces, stating, “Kargil Vijay Diwas is not merely a celebration of military triumph; it embodies the eternal saga of sacrifice, duty, and national pride that will never fade from our memories.”

Alongside Soldier Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi, Dhami also unveiled plans for two crucial facilities aimed at enhancing the welfare of servicemen: an ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme) center and rest house in Kaleshwar (Chamoli district), along with a Sainik Rest House in Nainital.

In a further message on social media, the Chief Minister underscored India's bolstering military strength under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. Highlighting significant moments in recent military history—including the surgical strikes post-Uri, air strikes following Pulwama, and the recent Operation Sindoor—Dhami asserted that India has made it unmistakably clear that any threat to its citizens will be met with resolute action.

“A strong message has been conveyed: Anyone who dares to threaten the dignity of our sisters and daughters will face total annihilation,” he stated.

The event also included the recognition of ex-servicemen and families of martyrs, where CM Dhami personally honored them with shawls and mementos. The program, organized by the Soldier Welfare Department, was attended by numerous dignitaries, including MP Naresh Bansal and local MLAs.

Uttarakhand, often referred to as the 'land of the brave', lost 75 sons during the Kargil War, which extended over 60 days and concluded on July 26, 1999, with a resounding victory for India. In total, 527 Indian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice, making this one of the most poignant chapters in the nation's military history.