In a bid to address uncertainties surrounding the financial support being extended to the family of the late Agniveer soldier, Gawate Akshay Laxman, who valiantly lost his life in the treacherous terrains of Siachen, the Indian Army has come forward to offer clarity on the matter. The compensation provided to the soldier’s next of kin, the Army stated, is determined by the pertinent terms and conditions of the soldier’s service.
Laxman’s supreme sacrifice in Siachen, renowned as the world’s highest militarized zone, where troops battle biting frost and relentless winds, stirred empathetic sentiments not only within the Indian Army but across the nation. In acknowledgment of this, the Additional Directorate General of Public Information, IHQ of MoD (Army), through social media affirmed the Army’s support for the bereaved family while aiming to resolve any misconceptions that had emerged on social media regarding financial assistance.
The comprehensive compensations designated for the family encompass various components. These include a non-contributory insurance amount of Rs 48 lakh, an ex-gratia payment of Rs 44 lakh, a Seva Nidhi contribution from Agniveer at 30 per cent, accompanied by a matching contribution from the government, along with the accrued interest. Additionally, it encompasses the soldier’s pay for the remaining tenure from the date of his passing until the culmination of four years. In the current context, this amount exceeds Rs 13 lakh.
The Armed Forces Battle Casualty Fund further augments the support with an additional contribution of Rs 8 lakh. To provide immediate relief, the Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA) is facilitating financial assistance of Rs 30,000.
Details of what the family of a deceased Agniveer will receive
Elucidating the specific details, the ADG PI stated, “As per the terms of engagement of Agniveers, emoluments authorized to a deceased battle casualty will comprise: Non-contributory insurance sum, amounting to Rs 48 lakh. Seva Nidhi contributed by Agniveer (30 percent), with equal matching contribution by the Government, and interest thereon. Ex-gratia of Rs 44 lakh.
Pay of the balance tenure from the date of death till completion of four years (more than Rs 13 lakh in the instant case). Contribution of Rs 8 lakh from the Armed Forces Battle Casualty Fund. Immediate financial assistance of ₹30 thousand from Army Wives Welfare Association (AWWA).”
The Indian Army’s commitment to providing substantial support to the families of these valiant soldiers are not just a matter of duty but also a testament to the nation’s unwavering appreciation for their sacrifices.