Shillong, May 8: General Administration Department (GAD) Minister Rakkam A Sangma on Thursday chaired the 25th meeting of the Rajya Sainik Board, reaffirming the state government’s commitment to the welfare of ex-servicemen (ESM), widows and their dependents in Meghalaya.

Speaking at the meeting, Minister Sangma lauded the efforts of the Directorate of Sainik Welfare and emphasized the government’s intent to utilise the experience and skills of ex-servicemen for the benefit of the state. “The government is keen to promote ESM welfare and use this valuable asset profitably,” he said.

Col Darryl Hopkins (Retd), Secretary of the Board, presented key updates and government initiatives taken for ESM welfare. He informed that the construction of the Sainik Rest House cum Office Complex in Shillong is nearing completion under the Public Works Department, while the appointment process for a Zila Sainik Welfare Officer in Tura is underway.

Further, the state government is actively considering the establishment of a Sainik Rest House in Tura, along with allied facilities including a Polyclinic and CSD outlet to benefit veterans in the Garo Hills region.

Hopkins also announced that the state has sanctioned posts of Welfare Organizers in Jowai and Baghmara, with recruitment of eligible ex-servicemen currently in process to address veteran-related concerns in those areas.

Significantly, the one-time grant for Gallantry and Distinguished Service Award recipients has been raised to match those of other northeastern states. Additionally, the ex-gratia grant for the next of kin (NoK) of Armed Forces personnel has been increased from Rs 15 lakh to Rs 20 lakh.

The board also discussed induction of technically skilled ex-servicemen into state government jobs. On the education front, efforts are ongoing to establish a Sainik School in Meghalaya under a partnership model involving NGOs, private bodies, and government institutions. Applications will be invited once the national portal reopens.

Concluding the meeting, Minister Sangma reiterated the government’s dedication to strengthening welfare mechanisms for veterans and their families.

Also Read: No need to panic, Meghalaya has enough food, assures Minister amid war tension

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