PM Modi Hails ‘One Rank, One Pension’ As Tribute To Veterans’ Courage And Sacrifice

Prime Minister Narendra Modi marked the 10th anniversary of the One Rank, One Pension (OROP) scheme by lauding it as a testament to the courage and sacrifices of India’s veterans. Celebrating a decade since its implementation, Modi emphasized the scheme’s role in acknowledging the contributions of ex-service personnel.

In a post on X, Modi reflected on the scheme’s inception, stating, “On this day, ‘One Rank, One Pension’ was implemented as a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of our veterans who dedicate their lives to protecting our nation. Implementing OROP was a meaningful step towards fulfilling a long-standing demand and affirming our nation’s gratitude.”

On this day, #OneRankOnePension (OROP) was implemented. This was a tribute to the courage and sacrifices of our veterans and ex-service personnel who dedicate their lives to protecting our nation. The decision to implement OROP was a significant step towards addressing this…

— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 7, 2024

The Prime Minister noted the scheme’s impact, pointing out that millions of pensioners and their families have benefited from OROP over the past decade. He underscored that beyond its financial impact, the policy demonstrates the government’s commitment to the welfare of the armed forces and their families.

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Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh echoed this sentiment, describing OROP as central to Modi’s policy on military welfare. “The One Rank, One Pension scheme is a crucial pillar of PM Modi’s policy toward the Armed Forces. The government remains dedicated to caring for soldiers and their families,” Singh said. Sharing a video tribute to the Indian armed forces, Singh expressed gratitude to Modi for meeting the long-standing commitment to veterans, with over 2.5 million ex-service personnel benefitting from the initiative.

First implemented in 2014, OROP standardized pension payments for military retirees based on rank and years of service, irrespective of retirement date. Before OROP, disparities in pension amounts were common; for instance, a Lieutenant General retiring in 1995 could receive a lower pension than a Colonel retiring after 2006 despite similar service tenures.

Under OROP, all Defence pensioners who retired, were discharged, or invalided out of service as of July 1, 2014—including commissioned officers, honorary officers, junior commissioned officers, other ranks, and non-combatants—now receive uniform pensions. The reform reflects the government’s recognition of the sacrifices of India’s military personnel and its commitment to honoring their service.