(a) whether there is undue delay in finalising the cases for grant of pension to the freedom fighters;
(b) if so, the criteria adopted in processing/finalising the cases after receipt of the same;
(c) whether the Government proposes to lay down guidelines for early finding cases for grant of pension to freedom fighters;
(d) if so, the details thereof; and
(e) if not, the steps taken by the Government in this regard?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF HOME AFFAIRS (SHRI MANIKRAO HODLYA GAVIT)
(a): No, Sir.
(b) to (e): Applicants for Central Samman pension under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme,
1980 are required to apply on the prescribed application form. The applications, supported by requisite
evidence of the claimed suffering, are required to be routed through the concerned State Government/Union
Territory Administration.
The claims for Central Samman pension can be considered only when these are duly verified and
recommended by the concerned State Government/Union Territory Administration in accordance with the provisions
of the Swatantrtaa Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, 1980. The verification and recommendatory report of the State
Government/Union Territory Administration is mandatory in view of the fact that the documents and evidence of the
claims are in the possession of the concerned State Government/Union Territory Administration, and not of the Central
Government. However, the Central Government has to keep all documents/reports/evidence in view and take a decision
in accordance with the prescribed eligibility criteria and evidentiary requirements of the Swatantrata Sainik Samman
Pension Scheme, 1980. A positive recommendation of the State Government is, therefore, not binding on the Central
Government (if the claim does not satisfy the eligibility criteria and evidentiary requirement prescribed under the
Central Scheme).
The receipt, consideration and disposal of State reports is a continuous process. While efforts are made
to dispose off State reports expeditiously, no time-frame can be indicated therefor.