Image Source: X/ India Education Diary
The One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme is a long-awaited reform for India’s armed forces. It ensures that defence personnel retiring at the same rank and with the same years of service receive equal pensions, regardless of their retirement date. The idea is simple: an officer or soldier retiring today should not get more benefits than someone who retired years ago at the same level.
The scheme officially took effect from 1 July 2014, covering retired servicemen, war widows, family pensioners, and disabled personnel.
Fairness in pensions: Pensions are calculated based on the average of the minimum and maximum pension for a rank in 2013. No pension is reduced; those already drawing higher pensions continue receiving them.
Payment of arrears: Pension arrears are disbursed in four installments. However, war widows, gallantry awardees, and special pension holders receive their arrears in a single payment.
Regular revisions: OROP pensions are revised every five years to reflect current pay scales.
The third OROP revision came into effect on 1 July 2024, benefiting nearly 19.65 lakh ex-servicemen and pensioners. The annual cost of this revision is estimated at ₹6,703 crore.
The government confirmed that arrears have been cleared, ensuring timely financial relief for veterans. So far, more than ₹1.24 lakh crore has been spent under OROP since its introduction.
Also Read: What Is PM SVANidhi Yojana? Budget, Objectives, & Extended Date | Details Inside
Despite progress, some anomalies remain unresolved. For example, retired Army Captains have faced discrepancies in their pension under OROP. The Supreme Court has directed the government to fix these issues at the earliest basis.
Additionally, some ex-servicemen have sought more clarity on calculations and timelines. The Defence Ministry has started consultations with veterans’ groups to address concerns, especially among Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and other ranks.
Provides financial security to over 25 lakh veterans and their families.
Restores equity and dignity among ex-servicemen by ensuring “same rank, same pension.”
Recognizes the sacrifices of India’s armed forces and their contribution to national security.
The OROP scheme is set to continue with reviews every five years. The next revision cycle will follow after 2024. Meanwhile, the government is working on removing anomalies and improving communication with veterans to make the system more transparent and effective.
Also Read: PM Kisan Yojana: 21st Installment Likely Before Diwali 2025
