Uttarakhand Increases Compensation for Param Vir Chakra Awardees on Kargil Vijay Diwas

On Kargil Vijay Diwas, Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced a threefold increase in compensation for Param Vir Chakra awardees, raising it to Rs 1.5 crore. This decision reflects the state's commitment to honoring the bravery of soldiers and their families. During a wreath-laying ceremony, CM Dhami paid tribute to the soldiers who sacrificed their lives in the Kargil War, emphasizing the importance of remembering their valor. The event also included plans for new facilities to support ex-servicemen and highlighted India's growing military strength under Prime Minister Modi's leadership. This announcement marks a significant step in recognizing the sacrifices made by the armed forces.

By Narendra Chaudhary Jul 26, 2025, 16:39 IST

Significant Compensation Boost for War Heroes

Dehradun, July 26: On the significant occasion of Kargil Vijay Diwas, Uttarakhand's Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami announced a substantial rise in the ex-gratia compensation for the nation’s most esteemed war heroes. Soldiers who have been awarded the Param Vir Chakra, the highest military honor in India, will now receive Rs 1.5 crore, marking a threefold increase from the previous amount of Rs 50 lakh.

CM Dhami described this decision as a “symbol of unwavering respect for valour,” emphasizing Uttarakhand's dedication to honoring the welfare and dignity of soldiers, veterans, and the families of martyrs.

The announcement was made through a post on the social media platform 'X', where the Chief Minister expressed gratitude and determination on behalf of the state.

“The ex gratia for Param Vir Chakra recipients has been raised from Rs 50 lakh to Rs 1.5 crore. This reflects our government's steadfast commitment to honoring bravery,” CM Dhami stated in his post.

During a wreath-laying ceremony at Gandhi Park in Dehradun, CM Dhami paid tribute to the courageous soldiers who sacrificed their lives during the 1999 Kargil War. The event featured emotional tributes, floral offerings, and public acknowledgments of the families of the fallen.

He praised the indomitable spirit of the Indian Armed Forces, asserting: “Kargil Vijay Diwas is not merely a celebration of military success; it embodies the eternal saga of sacrifice, duty, and national pride that must never be forgotten.”

Alongside Soldier Welfare Minister Ganesh Joshi, Dhami also revealed plans for two essential facilities aimed at supporting servicemen: an ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme) center and a rest house in Kaleshwar (Chamoli district), as well as a Sainik Rest House in Nainital.

In another social media message, the Chief Minister underscored India's increasing military capabilities under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership. He referenced significant moments in recent military history, including the surgical strikes following the Uri attack, air strikes after the Pulwama incident, and the recent Operation Sindoor, stating that India has made it clear that any threats to its citizens will be met with decisive action.

“A clear message has been sent: Anyone who dares to threaten the dignity of our sisters and daughters will face total destruction,” he wrote.

The event also included the recognition of ex-servicemen and the families of martyrs, with CM Dhami personally presenting them with shawls and mementoes. The program, organized by the Soldier Welfare Department, was attended by various dignitaries, including MP Naresh Bansal and local MLAs.

Uttarakhand, often referred to as the 'land of the brave', lost 75 sons during the Kargil War, which lasted over 60 days and concluded on July 26, 1999, with a decisive victory for India. A total of 527 Indian soldiers made the ultimate sacrifice in this conflict, marking it as one of the most significant chapters in the nation’s military history.