Defence Minister Manohar Parrikar announced on Saturday that the government has taken the decision to implement the One Rank One Pension (OROP) with revision every five years. OROP benefit will be given by the Government effective 1 July 2014. This is a day immediately next to the day when current Government assumed office last year.

OROP arrears would be paid in four installments within two years, while arrears for widows, including war widows, will be cleared in one installment. On the basis of calendar year 2013, OROP would be fixed. For all pensioners retiring in same service length and same rank, pension will be re-fixed. A consideration from the Government is there for the appointment of a committee under a judge to check the equalization issue of pension.

Major Gen (Retd) Satbir Singh said that it is good for what government has announced and said that they are satisfied. However, the veterans sought clarifications on several issues including averaging of pension and pre-mature retirement benefits. The government has accepted only one of their seven demands, Singh added. Ex-servicemen also disapproved of setting up judicial committee of one member as they feel that it should be under Defence minister.

"We do not accept the decision not to give OROP benefits to those who have taken voluntary retirement," Mr. Singh said.

-Sumana