OROP Revision : In a major announcement, the Government of India has approved the revision of the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme for Defence Forces Personnel and their families. This decision, effective from July 1, 2024, marks the third iteration of the OROP scheme, reflecting the government’s commitment to the welfare of its retired military personnel. Parliamentary inquiries underscore the significance and thoroughness of the OROP revision initiative.
Parliamentary Inquiry on OROP 3
Date: July 26, 2024
In a related parliamentary session, Shri Sachithanantham R raised an unstarred question regarding the disbursement of OROP dues. The questions focused on whether the government plans to release the OROP due amount on a monthly basis starting July 1, 2024, instead of in instalments as done previously. The detailed queries were as follows:
1. Proposal for Monthly Disbursement:
Inquiry about the government’s proposal to disburse OROP due amounts on a monthly basis from July 1, 2024.
2. Details of the Proposal:
Request for details if such a proposal exists.
3. Reasons for Not Implementing:
If no such proposal exists, the reasons for not adopting monthly disbursements.
Response from the Minister of State for Defence, Shri Sanjay Seth:
The Minister of State for Defence confirmed the government’s approval of the OROP revision effective from July 1, 2024. He clarified that arrears resulting from the revision would be paid within one financial year. This response highlights the government’s commitment to ensuring that the revised pensions are implemented promptly and the financial benefits reach the ex-servicemen without undue delay.
Salient Features of Tentative OROP Revision
The One Rank One Pension (OROP) revision initiative aims to ensure fair and updated pension distribution for Defence Forces personnel. This revision covers past pensioners, family pensioners, war widows, and disabled pensioners, effective from July 1, 2024. Detailed guidelines will be issued to facilitate the implementation of these changes.
1. Effective Date and Basis for Revision:
The revision of pensions under the OROP scheme will be effective from July 1, 2024.
The pension will be re-fixed based on the average of the minimum and maximum pensions of Defence Forces personnel who retired in the calendar year 2023, ensuring a fair and updated pension distribution.
2. Eligibility and Inclusions:
The revision applies to past pensioners and will be re-fixed based on the pension of retirees from 2023.
It includes family pensioners, war widows, and disabled pensioners, ensuring a broad and inclusive beneficiary base.
3. Protection of Higher Pensions:
Pensions currently above the average will be protected, preventing any reduction in benefits for those already receiving higher pensions.
4. Arrears Payment:
Arrears due to the revision will be paid within one financial year, ensuring timely financial support to the pensioners.
5. Exclusions:
Personnel who fall into the following categories will not be entitled to OROP benefits:
- Opted for voluntary discharge on or after July 1, 2014.
- Discharged under the following rules:
- Rule 13(3)i(i)(b)
- Rule 13(3)II(i)(b)
- Rule 13(3)III(iv)
- Rule 168 of the Army Rule 1954 (or equivalent rules in the Navy or Air Force).
6. Further Instructions:
Detailed instructions and tables for the revision process will be issued separately, providing clear guidelines for implementation.
Implications of OROP Revision (OROP 3)
The revision of the OROP scheme is a significant step towards addressing the long-standing demands of Defence Forces personnel for equitable pension distribution. By basing the pension on the average of minimum and maximum pensions from 2023 retirees, the government aims to standardize pensions across similar ranks and lengths of service, providing a fairer system.
The inclusive approach, covering family pensioners, war widows, and disabled pensioners, ensures that all segments of the Defence community benefit from the revision. The protection of higher pensions addresses concerns about potential losses for those currently receiving above-average pensions.
The exclusion of personnel who opted for discharge under specific rules post-July 1, 2014, indicates a structured policy that takes into account the varying circumstances of discharges.
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Conclusion
The government’s decision to revise the One Rank One Pension (OROP 3) scheme reflects a continued commitment to the welfare of its retired Defence Forces personnel. The detailed communication from DESW and the parliamentary inquiries underscore the thoroughness and transparency of the process. As the detailed instructions are awaited, the Defence community can anticipate enhanced financial support and recognition of their invaluable service to the nation.
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