OROP: Protecting the rights of our armed forces
On 5th September, 2015, the Narendra Modi led government announced a historic decision – the implementation of One Rank One Pension. A decision which was delayed for nearly 4 decades was finally passed to protect the rights of the armed forces.
The announcement of OROP was a re-affirmation of the Narendra Modi led Government’s commitment to protect and fulfil the needs of ex-servicemen. In his address, the then Defence Minister Shri Manohar Parrikar said, “Government of India respects its Defence Forces and Ex-Servicemen for their valour, patriotism and sacrifices. The Government is proud of their devotion to duty and bravery. Our forces, besides vigilantly and gallantly defending the nation, have displayed exemplary standards of courage and bravery in natural calamities, law and order situations and other difficult circumstances.”
The announcement to finally implement OROP was taken after umpteen discussions and consultations with experts and ex-servicemen. As said and agreed upon The Narendra Modi Government has implemented the best possible One Rank One for the Armed Forces personnel retiring in the same rank with the same length of service, irrespective of their date of retirement. In case of future enhancements, the rates of pension would be automatically passed on to the past pensioners. The significant step to bridge the gap between the rate of pension of current and past pensioners at periodic intervals has a gone a long way in assuring servicemen of the Government’s commitment.
Under the OROP, a decision was taken to pay arrears in four half-yearly instalments. All widows, including war widows, were paid arrears in one instalment. Personnel who voluntarily retire will not be covered under the OROP scheme and the pension would be re-fixed every 5 years.
The implementation of the scheme was applicable with effect from July 1, 2014 since the Government assumed office in May, 2014 and deemed it necessary to implement the scheme immediately after. Delivering a promise which was denied for more than 40 years, the Prime Minister assured the citizens of his commitment towards fulfilling the needs of the nation.
The notable decision received much appreciation from citizens and also played an important role in affirming confidence in the newly elected government. Here are a few glimpses of the historic decision’s announcement, ex-servicemen’s reactions and progress.
Watch the journey of implementing One Rank One Pension
