Union Government gives nod to One Rank One Pension scheme

Union Government has given its nod to implement One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme for ex-servicemen.
It was announced by Union Defence Minister Manohar Parikkar in New Delhi.

Facts about One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme

• OROP will provide ex-servicemen of same rank and same length of service uniform pension regardless of date of retirement.
• The benefit will be given with effect from 1st of July 2014 and it will benefit all three services- Army, Navy and Air Force.
• Pension will be re-fixed every five years and future enhancements in rates of pension would be automatically passed to the past pensioners.
• Armed forces personnel who retire voluntarily would be not covered under OROP scheme. However, it will be applicable to personnel who have already retired prematurely.
• All arrears will be paid in four half-yearly installments and all widows will be paid arrears in one installment.
• Estimated cost to implement OROP scheme would be around 8000 crore rupees to 10,000 crore rupees at present and it will increase further in future.

Union Government also has decided to constitute one member Judicial Committee for examination of interests of retirees of different periods and different ranks. The Committee will also cover inter-service issues of the three forces and submit its report in six months.

Month: Current Affairs - September, 2015