Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme

Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme

Inaugurated on August 15, 1972, the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme is an initiative by the Ministry of Home Affairs aimed at providing financial assistance to the valiant freedom fighters and their families. This program honors the sacrifices made by these individuals during India’s struggle for independence and ensures that their contributions are recognized through a pension.

Overview of the Scheme

The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme is designed to support living freedom fighters and their families. Additionally, should a freedom fighter pass away, the pension is extended to their family members, as well as to the families of martyrs. This pension serves as a symbol of respect and gratitude for their significant roles in India’s freedom movement.

Pension Duration

The pension is granted for the lifetime of the recipient, with the exception of unmarried daughters, for whom the pension ceases upon marriage or achieving independence. In the unfortunate event of a pensioner’s death, their heirs must apply anew to receive the pension, even if they are otherwise eligible.

Benefits of the Scheme

The pension amount varies based on the category of freedom fighters. Below are the details:

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the pension under this scheme, a freedom fighter must meet the following criteria:

• A minimum imprisonment of six months in mainland jails prior to Independence. Ex-INA personnel are eligible if detained outside India.
• For women and SC/ST freedom fighters, the minimum imprisonment is reduced to three months, effective from August 1, 1980.

Additional Considerations

The following points are crucial for determining eligibility:

• Detention by competent authorities is recognized as imprisonment.
• A normal remission period of up to one month counts as part of the actual imprisonment.
• The trial period leading to a conviction will be added to the actual imprisonment duration.
• Any fragmented periods of imprisonment will be combined to assess eligibility.

Eligible Dependents

In cases where the freedom fighter is deceased, eligible dependents include:

• Mother and Father
• Widower/Widow (if not remarried)
• Unmarried Daughters (only one dependent can receive the pension, prioritized in the order mentioned above)

Application Process

To apply for the pension, follow these steps:

Offline Application Steps

1. Request a free copy of the prescribed application form from either the State Government/UT or the Freedom Fighters’ Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, 1st Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan, New Delhi.
2. Complete the application form with all mandatory information and attach necessary documents (self-attestation may be required).
3. Submit the first copy to the Chief Secretary of the respective State Government/Union Territory Administration.
4. Send the second copy to the Deputy Secretary, Freedom Fighters Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, 1st Floor, Lok Nayak Bhawan, New Delhi – 3 as an advance copy.

Official Source

For more information, visit myScheme.gov.in.