Lt Gen Rakesh Sharma and Adjutant General Indian Army visited Nepal recently. Presently there are approx 126000 Nepal Domiciled Gorkha pensioners residing in Nepal drawing pension worth approx NRs. 4000 Crores (approx 400 Million USD).

During the course of the visit, two Ex-Servicemen Rallies were conducted at Pokhara and Dharan. The rallies were conducted so as to ensure maximum participation of the Ex-servicemen residing in the remote areas, which was widely appreciated by veterans at Pokhara and Dharan, and the response was overwhelming. This also provided the Ex-Servicemen with an opportunity to project their grievances related to pensions, various welfare claims, medical issues or any other aspects concerning them. 

According to a press release issued by Indian Embassy Kathmandu, during the Rallies, on behalf of the Indian Army, Ministry of Defence, Government of India, the Adjutant General conveyed his condolences for the damage to life and property during the devastating earthquake that had occurred in Nepal on 25 April last year, and announced a cash grant of NRs. 32,0000/- for each of the 6,832 affected Ex-servicemen whose applications had come to the Defence Wing, a total amount of NRs. 21.86 Crores, as a small token of assistance from the Indian Army.  Earlier, in India, similar grants have been given to the affected Nepali Gorkha Soldiers currently serving in the Indian Army. 

War widows and veterans were also felicitated with financial assistance in the form of gifts such as Sewing Machines, Blankets, Wheel Chairs, Walkers and cash incentives. Computers and stationery sets were provided to 15 Bhu-Puu Samities.  The Adjutant General apprised all that the welfare and well being of all Ex-Servicemen is of paramount importance to the Government of India and all steps are being taken to ensure the same with a holistic approach including simultaneous implementation of One Rank One Pension and the 7th Pay Commission. The Adjutant General was accompanied by Colonel Manraj Singh Mann, Defence Attaché of the Indian Embassy and a Staff Officer from the Indian Army.

The visit reinforced the resolve of the Government of India and Indian Army in looking after the welfare, medical, pension and documentation related requirements of the veterans and their families.