The Assured Decent Last Rites Scheme (ADLRS) was introduced in May 2006 by the Indian Armed Forces to guarantee that all willing veterans receive an honorable funeral. This initiative serves as a final tribute to their service to the nation and is designed to provide immediate assistance to the family of a deceased veteran, ensuring that their last rites are conducted with dignity and respect.
Concept of ADLRS
The primary objective of the ADLRS is to uphold the moral responsibility of the Army towards its veterans. An organizational setup has been established at each Canteen Stores Department (CSD) Canteen, where veterans are registered. Upon the passing of a veteran, field staff are dispatched to the residence of the deceased to assist the family in organizing the funeral. If necessary, the field staff will take over the arrangements and ensure that the last rites are conducted appropriately. The scheme also guarantees that a wreath is placed on behalf of the Chief of the Army Staff (COAS) as a tribute to the deceased.
Overall management and financing of the scheme are handled by the CSD Canteen to which the deceased veteran was last attached.
Eligibility for ADLRS
All veterans from the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Assam Rifles, including officers, Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs), Other Ranks (ORs), and their widows, are eligible for this scheme, provided they hold valid CSD canteen cards and are dependent on an Army-run CSD Canteen.
Financial Assistance
The next of kin (NOK) of the deceased veteran is entitled to financial assistance under the ADLRS, structured as follows:
- For the Army, an amount of ₹10,000 is disbursed through the arrangements made by the Station Headquarters (HQ).
- For the Navy, ₹40,000 is granted by the Indian Navy Benevolent Fund (INBF).
- For the Air Force, ₹7,500 is provided under the supervision of the Air Force Association (AFA) or the nearest Air Force Station. Additionally, ₹15,000 is contributed by the Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) through the local Air Force Unit or AFA.
The financial grant is provided as soon as the death is reported or upon submission of the death certificate. If there is no NOK or if requested by the family, the field staff will take charge of organising the last rites. In cases where a veteran dies in a location different from where they are registered or is not affiliated with any canteen, the nearest Station HQ or canteen will provide the grant, which can later be reimbursed by the dependent canteen.
Documentation Required
- Death Certificate: 2 copies
- Identity Cards: of the deceased and the NOK – 2 copies each
- Passport-sized Photographs: of the NOK – 3 copies
- Cancelled Cheque or Bank Details of the NOK showing IFSC and MICR code – 1 copy
- Photocopy of the Bank Passbook: – 2 copies
- NOK Registration Form: – 2 copies
Process of Claiming ADLRS
Upon the demise of a veteran, the family or next of kin must notify the Station HQ closest to their location. The required amount will be paid by the unit to the NOK, which will then be reimbursed from the veteran’s dependent Unit Run Canteen (URC). If the veteran passes away in a different location or is not registered with a local canteen, the nearest canteen or Station HQ will provide the amount, which can later be claimed from the dependent canteen.
Dedicated Helpline for ADLRS
A dedicated helpline (1904) has been established for informing Army authorities about the demise of a veteran and initiating the process for organizing last rites. Families can call this number from anywhere in India, and the exchange operator will connect them with the nearest Station HQ. A designated officer from the HQ will then contact the family to arrange all necessary support for the funeral.
Guidelines for Implementation
Each Station HQ will assign officers to ensure the smooth implementation of the scheme. These officers will coordinate all necessary arrangements, ensuring that every step aligns with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) of the ADLRS. The Station Commander and other senior officers may also become involved, depending on the rank and status of the deceased veteran, to ensure a fitting farewell.
Conclusion
In summary, the Assured Decent Last Rites Scheme reflects the commitment of the Indian Armed Forces to honour the veterans who have served the country. By providing financial assistance and support for last rites, the ADLRS ensures that veterans are respected and remembered with dignity even after their demise. The implementation of this scheme across the Army, Navy, and Air Force underscores the comprehensive coverage and dedication of the armed forces to their veterans and their families.
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