Wednesday, January 27, 2010

POLITICAL DIRECTION, MILITARY LEADERSHIP AND MORALE by Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM

POLITICAL DIRECTION, MILITARY LEADERSHIP
AND
MORALE
By
Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi, PVSM, AVSM, VSM

Preliminaries

Mr. Chairman, Distinguished guests, Ladies and Gentlemen, it is a great honour indeed and a great pleasure to be here this afternoon to participate in the prestigious 4th Netaji Subhash Memorial Lecture and share my ideas on a subject of great importance, not just for the Indian military but also for the nation, the subject being “Political Direction, Military Leadership and Morale”.

Since time is at a premium, let me plunge straight into it and first discuss the important aspect of Political Direction.

Political Direction

Ladies and gentlemen, in the early years of our fledgling democracy, Pandit Nehru and other Indian political leaders, barring exceptions like Netaji Subhash Chander Bose, looked at the military with suspicion and distrust.

Thereafter, commencing with the operations launched to save Kashmir in October 1947, to the various wars and conflicts fought to secure the nation, the military should have become the darling of the nation. It undoubtedly is for the common Indian, the Aam Aadmi, but the story is quite different where our governing class is concerned.

Our leaders have reduced the status of the military over the years. It is not just the warrant of precedence, but many important facets. Witness how the budget of the defence forces has been steadily declining, to an all time low of less than two per cent of the GDP. Modernization of all the three services is moving at a snails’ pace, if at all, and shortages of weapons, ammunition and equipment are steadily increasing. There is a grave shortage of officers in all the three services, but it is hurting the army the most, resulting in serious erosion of our capabilities.

Our political leadership has forgotten that it was this very Indian Military, which did yeomen service during the blood bath of partition, saving countless lives. Although time for consolidation was badly needed after Independence, there was none, as the army was operationally committed in Kashmir within two months of Independence. Thereafter, one war followed another and even during the no-war interludes, the army was committed on prolonged internal security tasks. The large numbers of police forces, whose numbers get enhanced every year, continue to be incapable or unwilling to handle internal challenges. Resultantly, the army has been in Nagaland and Manipur; Assam; and J&K for over 50, 30 and 20 years respectively! Despite all these constraints, the achievements of the defence forces are a tribute to the leadership, fighting spirit and patriotic fervour of all ranks.

In democracies the world over, the political leadership of the country makes national policy, as well as the national security strategy. This is done with the active participation of civil and military officials of the country. The Indian military understands this fully, but it seems neither the political leadership nor their civilian advisers understand the nuances of “civil control”.

It is a great pity and a matter of deep regret and concern that in our country the military has been deliberately kept out of the policy formulation loop and even after over six decades of loyal, patriotic and dedicated service to the nation, in both war and peace, it is still not trusted! Yes, I repeat - not trusted. Nothing else explains the reasons for its exclusion from policy formulation; the inability to evolve a viable and comprehensive structure for higher defence; the non-articulation of a national security strategy since Independence; the non-appointment of a CDS, accepted nearly a decade back; no worthwhile joint ness; the non-integration of the Ministry of Defence; and not the least, the muzzling of the three Chiefs, even when they speak on professional matters and say what needs to be said.

There could not be a more improper way of handling the security of the nation than this state of affairs. Let me reinforce what I am stating by only two examples, as time does not permit me to go into many others. Firstly, India is one of the few countries in the world that has no formalized national security strategy. In a statement made in Parliament in April 2006, i.e. nearly four years back, the defence ministry was to have issued one by December last year, but 2009 has also passed into history and we continue with our endless waiting! Secondly, despite over ten years of existence, the government continues to exclude senior military officers from the National Security Council, which is headed and staffed mainly by various types of bureaucrats. No wonder our security systems and formulations lack credibility and we fumble from one crisis to another.

Before I switch to the next topic, let me convey just two points to our opinion makers, some of whom are here. Firstly, do not mistrust your defence forces; they have served the nation with distinction and loyalty - they need to be respected and their counsel taken; otherwise the nation will lose out in its security-related concerns. Secondly, if the military continues to be treated with suspicion and disdain, let me be blunt and state that if it wants, it can assert itself and in a manner that may be neither palatable for the political leadership nor good for our democracy.

Military Leadership

Let me now shift to the second aspect, which I am required to cover in my talk. That is military leadership.

Leadership is the basic edifice of our defence forces and it is a perennial subject of discussion, instruction and introspection. It would be correct to say that the Indian military lives and breathes leadership.

Waging war today is a complex phenomenon, on account of high technology, the nature of modern war, new threats and challenges, human rights, transparency brought in by the media, globalization and the reality of nuclear weapons in the arsenal of our potential adversaries. Consequently, military leadership assumes even more importance.

In our army, Eighteenth Century authoritarian type of leadership has prevailed for centuries and continues to be practiced by many leaders. This must change, as both society and the battlefield milieu have changed. Increasingly, supportive, rather than authoritarian leaders, are needed in the military, as in other walks of life. Today’s leaders need to lead by the force of their personality and persuasive qualities and not by issuing fiats and crisp orders. The changed milieu demands that leaders address themselves to the followers' wants, needs, and other motivations, as well as to their own.

The majority of our soldiers prefer the guidance and direction of their leaders at practically every step. This is due to many factors, not the least being the societal background of our soldiers, our training systems, regimental upbringing and emphasis on attention to detail. In professional parlance it is known as “The Detailed Orders Command”, with its emphasis on centralized control. This has worked well for us in the past, but it needs to give way now to the “Directive Control” style of command, which is based on the delegation of authority, as the future battlefield is a mix of uncertainty and chaos, requiring decisions without looking back for fresh orders.

In recent years, there has been loose talk that while the young officers of the Indian military are excellent leaders, the senior leadership is not. This type of talk needs to be disabused. This has become a favourite theme of the media after the Kargil War of 1999, where our young officers had not only led from the front but did so with a great deal of bravery and panache. What is not known or appreciated, however, is that this was not a new phenomena; it has always been the norm in our military.

The Indian military could not have achieved victories and successes, as it has in both war and peace, if its senior officers were professionally inadequate or lacked any well known qualities of leadership. We have stringent norms for promotions and only the best get through successfully. Therefore, to say that young officers are uniformly good and the seniors are not, is a far too simplistic a statement. I do agree that amongst the nearly fifty thousand or so serving officers, there would be some whose motivation may have changed over the years, but the numbers are quite small.

Nonetheless, there are areas of concern, which need to be rectified and not pushed under the carpet. The major ones are:

Ø The apparent prevalence of a “zero error syndrome” from the top down.
Ø A sense of “insecurity”, perceived or otherwise, at the senior levels.
Ø Some leaders insulate themselves, resulting in the inability to “listen” or as we say in Hindi - “sunwai” nahin hoti.
Ø Sometimes there is a gap between percept and performance.
Ø In standards of selection of higher leadership, qualities such as integrity, moral strength, intellectual ability and honesty; self-discipline; and social as well as domestic probity or rectitude need to be placed much higher than professional competence.

The senior officers of the defence forces are the custodians of our value system. All ranks look up to them for setting an example. They have a unique role to play, not only in the development of their subordinates, but also to keep their units and formations in a highly motivated state.

Let me end this part of my presentation with a quote from our second Rashtrapati - Dr S Radhakrishnan, who had said that “The higher a man goes, the fewer are his rights and the more numerous his duties”. Our senior leaders need to remember this.

Morale

I now come to the third and last part of my presentation, dealing with morale. It was Napolean who had said that “Morale is to material as three to one”. High morale and motivation produce offensive spirit, which is essential for soldiers and officers alike.

The credo of our soldiers has just four simple aspects; these are:

Ø Firstly - “Namak, Naam Aur Nishan” - Fealty to one’s ‘Salt’, Name & Flag i.e. Nation, Army & Regiment.
Ø Secondly – “Izzat”- it is the concept of the soldier’s honour.
Ø Thirdly - “Zubaan” - the inviolability of the spoken word and dependability & trust between comrades.
Ø And Fourthly - “Dharam-Iman” - the soldiers duty & code of honour.

The actions of the officers of the Indian military are bound by the Chetwodian pledge:

“The Safety, Honour and Welfare of the country come first, always and every time.

The Honour, Welfare and Comfort of the men you command come next.

Your own ease, comfort and safety come last, always and every time”.

These are not merely words, but are adhered to by the officers and soldiers of the entire Indian Military – always and every time!!


The standing of soldiers in a country is dependent on the interplay of a number of dynamic factors like the quality of military leadership; equation with the political leadership; relationship with bureaucracy; and the image created by the media. I have already touched upon military leadership. Let me briefly touch on the relations with the political leadership and the bureaucracy.

Both the political leadership, as well as the bureaucracy of our country unfortunately lack compassion for the military. The important reasons are:-

Ø Firstly - The bulk of the political leadership and the bureaucracy do not have even the remotest connection with the Defence Services. In the history of independent India, no political leader or bureaucrat, except the odd one, has sent his progeny to the military. Therefore, they can neither relate to the military nor empathise with their lot.
Ø Secondly - Our political leadership is inadequately qualified and equipped about ‘matters military’ and security issues. They neither possess military knowledge nor display any desire to educate themselves. Many attempts in the past have met with a studied silence. Inadequacies of the political leadership result in their over dependence on the bureaucrats, who in turn also lack any in-depth knowledge.
Ø Thirdly - Our political leadership is highly uncomfortable in dealing with the military directly and prefers to let the bureaucracy do so. The military does not like this and hence there is a hiatus between two important organs of a democracy like ours. The loser is the nation.
Ø Fourthly - From the viewpoint of political leaders, soldiers, not being a worthwhile vote-bank, need not to be cultivated.
Ø Fifthly - The political leadership does not hesitate to tick off the top military leadership in public, not realizing the negative effect it has on the morale of the defence forces.
Ø Sixthly - The bureaucracy revels in one-upmanship and loses no chance to denigrate the military, through leaks to the media and/or exerting indirect pressure through their political bosses. They do have plenty of time to do so, if one wag is to be believed; he had stated that “Civil servants make the best husbands; they are not tired when they get home and they have read the newspapers already”.

Let me now briefly deal with the media-military relationship. For starters, the military is invariably in the media for the wrong reasons. The Indian media, in its bid to garner TRPs and maximum advertising revenue only believes in sensational stories. Harping on negative stories constantly, distorts the real image of the defence services and has a highly negative effect on the morale of the defence forces. Even when some positive stories are aired or printed, these have little impact, as the minds of the public have already been saturated with sensation and sleaze.

Fortunately, the public at large still holds the military in high esteem, but it does get influenced adversely by the deliberate attempts to downgrade soldiers and constant exposure by the media of the misdemeanours of a few persons, which are largely half-truths and presumptions.

The effect of low morale of the military translates into the weakening of the security of the country. The political leadership needs to realise that everything else being the same, the morale of the defence forces is the single most important factor that counts between victory and defeat.

The soldier’s dedication to duty, loyalty to the nation and willingness for the supreme sacrifice are driven less by material considerations and more by an overwhelming urge to earn the love and respect of their countrymen, their comrades and their regiments. A grateful nation's recognition of their contribution to national security acts as the strongest motivator. Unfortunately, our nation has not understood this aspect. If this situation persists and the soldiers are not cared for, the country will lose the moral right to expect them to die for its security.

If the government is indifferent, the civil society must act to assuage the feelings of hurt and neglect of the military. Most countries honour their serving soldiers and veterans by nominating a day and sometimes a week, where soldiers who had sacrificed their lives and limbs during wars and conflicts or served with honour, are felicitated by the highest leadership, as well as the citizenry. Their gallantry, tenacity, spirit of sacrifice, contributions to the security and sovereignty of the nation and their selfless spirit are formally lauded.

What do we do in our country, Sir? Nothing at all! Sixty years after Independence, we do not even have a national war memorial for our martyrs. We seem to have no time for such niceties of life. Why can we not declare 16 December, the day when our defence forces brought glory and the biggest victory to the nation in 1971, as the day for honouring our soldiers, both serving and those who have laid down their uniforms? The government should take the lead in this respect, but if it is unable or unwilling, the civil society must do so. If even the civil society throws up its hands, then perhaps the military veterans will have to do it, but what a shame it will be for a nation of over one billion souls!!

Conclusion

The Indian Defence forces have earned a formidable reputation of task accomplishment, usually against heavy odds. They will continue to fight the nation’s battles and wars, giving their best, but the nation must also support them to the maximum extent, meet their aspirations and restore their “izzat”, besides alleviating their concerns and misgivings.

India is now genuinely poised to shine. It cannot do so with a flawed higher defence organization, where the military is deliberately kept out of policy formulations; a media-tarnished military leadership; and a feeble military machine with little modernisation. The need today is for a synergistic and visionary national approach for the strong, purposeful and modern India where the soldier gets his due and the nation remains secure.

Thank you, ladies and gentlemen.--


*************************************************************************************

FURORE ON THE ARMY DOCTRINAL DEBATE

From: Gagandeep Bakhshi [mailto:gagandeep.bakshi@yahoo.com]
Sent: 26 January 2010 13:39
To: Kamboj Chander
Subject: Fw: Fwd of article

My Dear kamboj
Some days back there was an uproar over the issue of the Indian Army revising its doctrine.Very uncharitable comments were made in the media, including some upbraiding the Chief for speaking on this subject.To serve their purpose Military doctrines must be declaratory and well articulated in the open domain. Only then can these serve to deter! Enclosed is a copy of my article on this subject which is being published in the magazine"Purple Beret". I would be grateful if you could circulate it on your site.
Regards,
Maj Gen G D Bakshi
--------
FURORE ON THE ARMY DOCTRINAL DEBATE
By
Maj Gen G D Bakshi SM, VSM (retd)

Armed forces the world over routinely update their doctrines to keep pace with the accelerating pace of change in the global scenario and the even faster rate of change in military technology. A failure to do so would be dangerous and irresponsible. Doctrines are therefore usually revised every four to five years. That is precisely the exercise that the Indian Army is engaged in today. The current version of the Army Doctrine was released on 22Oct2004 and is therefore over five years old. The time is right for a wide ranging review of this doctrine.


It was therefore quite amazing to see the unseemly furore that this very routine exercise generated in Pakistan. It was even more surprising to hear the very defensive reactions in our media to the Pakistani uproar. One highly respected civilian analyst chided the Army Chief to keep his views on doctrine personal! The levels of irrationality in the rapidly failing state of Pakistan are increasingly becoming a cause for concern. Despite the fact that it has just been rescued from massive economic collapse and faces systemic failure, it behaves like a self- anointed Islamic Caliphate and a self confessed superpower. It treats Afghanistan as its exclusive sphere of influence ( a virtual colony). It demands that India not be permitted even to provide economic aid to the long suffering people of Afghanistan nor have any diplomatic representation or consular access in that country. It now demands that the Indian Army can not be permitted to carry out a routine update of its own doctrine for fear of annoying the Caliphs in Pakistan. The even more surprising aspect however is that some well meaning civilian analysts and votaries of peace at any cost have joined the Pakistani chorus to chide the Indian Army and pillory its Chief for trying to update their doctrine. As per them,the Indian Army cannot talk publicly of its doctrine. This just highlights the abysmal levels of ignorance about matters military in this country. Military Doctrines are almost always supposed to be declaratory doctrines. They are required to be publicly articulated so that they send an appropriate message to likely adversaries to deter them from adventurist actions. India has been confronted with a painful doctrinal dilemma. How should we respond to Pakistan’s sub conventional assault, first in J&K and now in all the major cities across the nation? How do we deal with what Chris Gagne calls the Stability-Instability Paradox, wherein stability at the nuclear level has bred high levels of instability at the sub conventional level? Mumbai was the proverbial last straw. Is the Indian population doomed to suffer at the hands of crazed Jihadis forever? For over thirty years India has surrendered the strategic and tactical initiative to Pakistan, and has fought a purely reactive and defensive war on its own soil. Will this continue forever because South Asia has gone nuclear? Or is there space for a Limited Conventional War below the Spectral ends of Nuclear War and Sub conventional Assaults?


Limited War The New Indian Doctrine must provide answers to these key issues. It must define the kind of war the Indian army must equip and train to fight. In essence the Army Doctrine must answer the seminal questions about the viability and form of Limited Conventional War against a Nuclear Backdrop. The Chinese Doctrine for Limited (or Local) Wars envisages very high levels of the use of military force. It places the onus of going nuclear squarely on the adversary. Can India paint itself into an impotent corner because of Pakistan’s overhyped nuclear threat (which is not credible except in a national emergency where Pakistan’s very survival is at stake). Even US Defense Secretary Robert Gates recognised candidly that India had exercised amazing level of restraint after Mumbai. He conceded that India cannot be expected to do the same, if there is another Mumbai-like mayhem.


Insurgency in the Heartland All of India’s insurgencies/terrorist movements were in Rimland/Border provinces so far (North East, Punjab, J&K). The new form of tribal insurgency has now broken out in the heartland – in Central and Peninsular India in the form of Left Wing Extremism (LWE). Jihadi Terror is now striking major cities deep in the interiors. The Army does not wish to be drawn far away from the borders it is tasked to defend. What if these Low Intensity Conflicts escalate? Can the Army stay out forever? The Rashtriya Rifles – the Internal Security Component of the Army will have to be involved. There are major shifts in Doctrine which will have to be discussed and debated. Only then can a viable doctrine be defined. Doctrines (for the less informed civilian friends) are not secret documents. They are declaratory documents designed to deter. For that they have to be communicated and the strength of resolve to carry them out, clearly articulated. India will have to field dominant war fighting capabilities in South Asia if it wishes to be left in peace by erratic neighbours that are developing delusions of grandeur even as they slip into collapse mode.
--------------
THE END

It is High Time We Unleash India from Rudderless and Confused Sociailism

From: Prem Sabhlok
Subject: It is High Time We Unleash India from Rudderless and Confused Sociailism
To: psabhlok@hotmail.com
Date: Monday, January 25, 2010, 9:50 PM
Eternal Vigilance is the Price of Liberty.
Dear All,
Dr. Sanjeev Sabhlok Ph.D is my son. A record holder of Panjab University in BSC (Hons) and amongst the toppers of IAS of 1982 batch. After getting convinced that Political leaders/bosses and most of the bureaucrats are not keen to attain Freedom and Swaraj (self rule) contemplated In amendment number 73 and 74 to the Constitution of India and want to perpetuate corrupt practices caused by rudderless and confused Nehruvian Socialism, he finally resigned in consultation with me when he was Secretary and Commissioner after rendering 18 years service in I.A.S. He has written a book entitled “Breaking Free of Nehru- Let' Us Unleash India”. The book has reached Oxford University Press bookstores.
The pre review is available for online reading on Website http://www.sanjeev.sabhlokcity.com/breakingfree.html

He is convinced that India badly and urgently needs reforms in its political and bureaucratic systems. He is also trying hard to bring together at least 1500 dedicated, sincere and honest Indians who believe in world’s best democratic systems and policy for India to contest future elections. Kindly see the Website http://www.freedom.sabhlokcity.com

Kindly feel free to give your remarks, comments, views for or against Sanjeev’s perceptions and suggestions in that book. Kindly also consider joining his group which is called Freedom Team of India.
His e-mail is
To create awareness about reforms and grass root democracy (swaraj) in India, kindly forward this e-mail to millions of vigilant citizens of India

We are badly struck up with independence with top down anarchy/oligarchy which we wrongly call as democracy. We are not moving at all towards attaining Freedom, Swaraj and bottom up democracy for which our leaders worked hard and attained independence- prelude to freedom.

Independent countries are likely to split like erstwhile USSR, Pakistan into Bangladesh and remaining part of Pakistan etc Countriess with Freedom get stronger and secular. Independent countries tend to become non secular, fanatic and rudderless involving even Military rule.

Now danger is looming large WDR 2009 tells us that we are nearing a Failed State. WDR was giving this signal for the last about a few years but this year it is Yellow signal just short of Red. Time to think Globally and Act locally. World Best Models are available. We have adopted a ruinous Model taking us to a failed State. WDR has no enmity for India. It is only cautioning us.

With regards,
P.K.Sabhlok
----------

ELECTIONS ALL INDIA DEFENCE BROTHERHOOD AT MOHALI : 27 JAN 2010

From: Exservicemen Joint Action Front Sanjha Morcha sanjhamorcha2009@gmail.com
Sent: 27 January 2010 21:06
To: iaf_jagdip@yahoo.co.in
Subject: ELECTIONS ALL INDIA DEFENCE BROTHERHOOD AT MOHALI : 27 JAN 2010

Dear Veterans,
Brig Harwant Singh ( Retd) was unanimously elected as the President of All India Defence Brotherhood (AIDB) in the presence of approx 70 members.
Lt Col AS Binder outgoing President was elevated to the post of Patron. The House meeting was conducted by the Gen Secy of AIDB Major SS Dhillon, who also happens to be Chairman of EX-Servicemen Joint Action Front ( Sanjha Morcha).
The Outgoing President Lt Col AS Binder THANKED all, for the support he received from all members in his thank giving speech. Brig Harwant Singh who is also the founder member of AIDB reassured the veteran member that he will carry everyone along as a team. He also reminded the members regarding postponement of Date for depositing the medals with the President as 14 Feb 2010. He requested all to come forward and join hands to win the battle of OROP.
Brig Kiran Krishan SM ( Retd) also addressed the members and introduced New members to all
Col RS Boparai, Vice President AIDB and President of Exservicemen Joint Action Front(Sanjha Morcha ), briefly touched upon the positive role played by AIDB in taking part in membership drive and collection of medals for IESM. He assured full support to any NGO and National party who support the long waiting demand of Ex-servicemen for OROP. He also apprised the members regarding the role of Sanjha Morcha, how its birth took place after fallout of internal fight among the core committee members of IESM at Delhi, who are now fighting Legal Battle in Courts among themselves. Sanjha Morcha will fight for the cause of Exservicemen. All ESM of Punjab are with Sanjha Morcha and will support the fight for the cause of OROP to logical conclusion without looking for any Name or credit.
FOR details & DEFENCE RELATED DAILY NEWS OPEN SANJHA MORCHA BLOG : http:/sanjhamorcha2009.blogspot.com
-----------

Lecture by Lt Gen Vijay Oberoi by veteran Ram Gulrajani ..Chennai

From: Ram Gulrajani ramgulrajani@gmail.com
Sent: 26 January 2010 22:10
To: Vijay Oberoi Lt Gen
Cc: Kamboj CS, Brig; Raj Kadyan Lt Gen; Satbir Singh Maj Gen; Surjit Singh Maj Gen Singh; Barin Ghose Vice Adm (Pen Cell); Chaturvedi RP Col; K. Punchhi; SS Phatak Gp Capt Pen Cell; Sharan Ahuja Cdr; Raman TN
Subject: TALK AT FICCI AUDITORIUM

Dear General

Your talk at the 112th Birthday Celebrations of Netaji Subhash Chander Bose is a fair and timely warning to the political leadership and babus who have taken the soldiers for granted. Your following line should reverberate in the corridors of power
Secondly, if the military continues to be treated with suspicion and disdain, let me be blunt and state that if it wants, it can assert itself and in a manner that may be neither palatable for the political leadership nor good for our democracy.
and make all concerned sit up and take stock of the state of affairs prevailing in Defence matters.

Every word of your lecture is apt and to the point. However, it is unfortunate that our media which is now heading towards paid news system, will not dare to air or print such warnings at the cost of being mauled by babus. But there are many forums on the net where this should be put up for every concerned Indian citizen to read.

However, I say this with regret: our military leadership, however competent professionally, need not be spineless. The last General who kept the politicians and babus in their place was General Manekshaw, who cared two hoots for his comforts after retirement. Its time one more Manekshaw heads the forces.

I congratulate you for your forthright utterances. I pray they reverberate in the corridors.

With best wishes and regards
Veteran Ram Gulrajani
Chennai.

PS.
I have circulated your speech to every Indian in my address book, including some journalists.

Lecture by Lt Gen Oberoi by Col V Swarup , USA

From: Virendra Swarup colonelviruswarup@gmail.com
Sent: 26 January 2010 01:58
To: oberoivijay@hotmail.com
Subject: Felicitation: Netaji Subhas Bose...

Dear Gen Oberoi,
Congrats for your excellent, thought provoking talk given by you on 23 Jan 10, at FICCI Auditorium, during 112th Birth Day Celebrations of Netaji Subhas Bose…
I’m proud of you Sir!
Warm regards,
Viru Swarup
www.colonelviruswarup.com
5116, East Butler Drive,
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253 USA
(Col Swarup is one of the very bright officers of Army who lost his both eyes in a freak accident – yet manages computers and the typing very efficiently – Chander Kamboj)
--------

Sunday, January 24, 2010

Veteran Cmde Babru Yadav MVC passes away

From: Arun Saigal saigal.arun@gmail.com
Sent: 24 January 2010 07:28
To: Arun Saigal
Subject: Cmde Babru Yadav MVC


Cmde Babru Bhan Yadav, winner of Maha Vir Chakra in 1971, passed away on 22 Jan 2010 at the age of 82.

I had the privilege to interact with him at length when I was secy of Navy Foundation Delhi charter and when researching for Admiral Nanda's autobiography.

He was a simple and unassuming man till the very end.
As far as I know, he had moved into an old people's home a couple of years ago in preference to living alone.

I am reproducing a small crisp write-up about him for those who are not aware of his achievements. Detailed writeups about him are available on the internet, in 'Transition to Triumph"
http://indiannavy.nic.in/t2t2e/Trans2Trimph/chapters/10_1971%20wnc1.htm

and on the Bharat Rakshak website at
http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/NAVY/History/1971War/44-Attacks-On-Karachi.html?start=1

and at http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/MONITOR/ISSUE4-4/harry.html

To my mind an MVC winner ought to have been given a funeral with full military honours at Brar square. I wonder what the rules/ guidelines are ..

Regards
Arun Saigal

Cdr (retd)

Commodore Babru Bhan Yadav 00101 B
Maha Vir Chakra
(1928-2010)
Commodore Babru Bhan Yadav was born on September 14, 1928 in village Bharawas, Rewari district, Haryana. His father, late Major Bhagwan Singh Yadav M. B. E., had taken part in both the World Wars. Interest in adventurous sea-life came naturally to young Babru Bhan. In fact, this Yadav family's history in joining army, dates back to the Mughal period, relates Colonel M. S. Yadav, his elder brother, and Colonel J. D. S. Yadav, his companion of school days.
Babru Bhan Yadav passed his Intermediate examination from the Banares Hindu University and B Sc from St. Stephen's College, Delhi in 1947. As a student, he was very fond of swimming. He had not seen the sea until he was 20. On the New Year's day in 1951, he got his commission in the Navy at the age of 23 years. He underwent his basic naval training in Devonshire in the United Kingdom.
He also went to Soviet Union for training. Earlier, he had completed Staff College Course. Commodore Yadav got his Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) award for displaying conspicuous gallantry during the 1971 India-Pakistan War for sinking two enemy destroyers and one Mine Sweeper in an offensive sweep on the enemy coast off Karachi. After retirement from the Indian Navy he joined the Merchant Navy.
1971 India-Pakistan War: Commodore Babru Bahan Yadav was the Squadron Commander of a division of ships which formed part of the Task Group of the Western Fleet ordered to carry out an offensive sweep on the enemy coast off Karachi on the night of December 4\5, 1971. Notwithstanding the threat of enemy air, surface and submarine attack, the officer led his division of ships deep into the enemy waters and encountered two groups of large enemy warships. Despite the heavy gun-fire from the enemy destroyers and at great risk to his ships and personnel, Commodore B B Yadav led his squadron towards the enemy in a swift and determined attack. As a result, two enemy destroyers and one mine sweeper were sunk. In this operation, Commodore Babru Bahan Yadav displayed conspicuous gallantry and leadership of a high order in the best traditions of the Indian Navy, for which he was awarded the Maha Vir Chakra (MVC) on 5th December, 1971.

source:
http://www.haryana-online.com/WarHeroes/commodore_b_b_yadav.htm
------------

RESCHEDULING OF IESM MEDAL SURRENDER RALLY PLANNED FOR 31 JAN 10.

Dear Veterans

This year winter has been very severe in Delhi. The temperatures have plummeted down and fog has reduced the visibility to zero since last many days. Met dept has predicted even worse weather in coming days. In view of this and keeping the age of veterans in mind it has been decided to reschedule the medal surrender rally to a later date. The new date will be announced soon.

ALL VETERANS TO PLEASE NOTE THAT MEDAL SURRENDER RALLY PLANNED FOR 31 JAN 2010 HAS BEEN RESCHEDULED FOR A LATER DATE IN VIEW OF INCLEMENT WEATHER CONDITIONS PREVAILING IN DELHI. NEW DATE WILL BE ANNOUNCED SOON.
Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM
L - 48, Sector - 25,
NOIDA. 201301
Tele no 01202519440
Mobile 09810541222

Thursday, January 21, 2010

Pune Team by Col Rajan

Respected Veterans:

Brig Sharad Luktuke
Gr Capt S S Phatak

Col Dipak Marnik
Wg Cdr S D Karnik
Lt Col Vinod Patil
Cdr Ravi Pathak
Jai Hind & my salute to you all for the yeoman services being rendered by you all.
Regards,
Col Rajan

Mail from ...Pune Team.... Cdr Pathak

Dear Sir

I have been getting a number of mails praising me for the work being done by me.

I wish to put on record that i am not the only one who has contributed to this success in Pune.I am merely the communication number of the Pune Core group.It is a result of a team work.The team members who have worked towards our goal are



Brig Sharad Luktuke
Gr Capt S S Phatak

Col Dipak Marnik
Wg Cdr S D Karnik
Lt Col Vinod Patil

We are all experiencing that a number of people have heard about the Ground Level work of IESM Pension/ECHS Division and that is drawing people to us.Many have stated that no one else has ever done this for the Veterans.

The other factor in our achieving the success is total unity amongst the members of our core group and no rank hassles.

I hope that this model can be replicated amongst all Conveners and those doing the membership drive.

Brgds

Ravi
Cdr Ravindra Waman Pathak I.N.(Retd)
Member and Coordinator IESM Pension Cell
(Mobile 919822329340)

तंत्र के गण-अधिकार को बनाया हथियार, चमत्कार...Cmde Lokesh Batra deserves a Pat




dainik Jagran Jan 21, 11:34 pm

नहीं होंगे रिटायर कभी says

कमोडोर लोकेश बत्रा। 36 वर्ष तक नौसेना में रहकर देश सेवा की। कहने को तो वर्ष 2003 से सेवानिवृत हैं, लेकिन सही मायनों में नहीं। वह गणतंत्र की सेवा किए जा रहे हैं, जिस तरह एक सच्चे गण को करना चाहिए। ज्यादातर लोग छोटी-छोटी समस्याओं को लेकर तंत्र को कोसते रहते हैं। लेकिन लोकेश बत्रा ने कोसने के बजाए कुछ करने का बीड़ा उठाया। उनके प्रयास का ही नतीजा है कि प्रधानमंत्री कार्यालय में सूचना के अधिकार [आरटीआई] की अपील की सुनवाई के लिए देश के सभी जिलों को वीडियो कांफ्रेंसिंग व्यवस्था से जोड़ा गया। नोएडा प्राधिकरण में आरटीआई के लिए सभी सूचनाओं को आनलाइन कर
दिया गया है। नोएडा के सेक्टर-25 स्थित जलवायु विहार में वह बस गए हैं। 63 वर्ष की आयु में भी वह जवानों पर भारी पड़ते हैं। उन्होंने सूचना का अधिकार एक्ट के हिंदी संस्करण में 34 त्रुटियों को ठीक कराया। पासपोर्ट कार्यालय में सेक्शन 4 को मानने से मना कर दिया था। बाद में उन्होंने आरटीआई के माध्यम से उसे देश के सभी पासपोर्ट कार्यालय में लागू कराया। बत्रा कहते हैं कि आरटीआई को उन्होंने लोकतंत्र की व्यवस्था सुधारने का हथियार बनाया। वह बताते हैं कि प्रधानमंत्री कार्यालय में आरटीआई के लिए दो अलग-अलग स्थानों पर जाना पड़ता था। एक जगह फाइल देखी जा सकती थी और दूसरी जगह पैसे जमा किए जा सकते थे। प्रधानमंत्री के साउथ ब्लाक स्थित कार्यालय में न तो गाड़ी पार्किग और न ही टायलेट की व्यवस्था थी। इसकी शिकायत भी आरटीआई के माध्यम से उन्होंने प्रधानमंत्री कार्यालय में की। बाद में जन सूचना अधिकारी को साउथ ब्लाक से हटाकर रेल भवन में स्थानांतरित कर दिया गया। बत्रा कहते हैं-आरटीआई का प्रयोग करते रहना चाहिए, जब तक आप व्यवस्था को ठीक नहीं करा देते।

Wednesday, January 20, 2010

Case Filed for Pension of Majors & equivalent- Pre 2006

From: avtar singh
Date: 2010/1/20
Subject: RE: [indianveterans] Pension of Majors & equivalent- Pre 2006
To: ravi warsha



Dear Cdr Pathak,

Case is already filed.

First hearing took place on 19 Jan 2010.

Respopndents have been asked to file reply on 16 March 2010.

Through you I wish to inform all vetarns Majors, Sqn Ldre, and LTCdrs that they can join me as petitioner befor the rejoinder is filed. Thereafter they would be at their own to reap the benefits .

Regards

Avtar Singh

Lt Cdr

20-1=2010

Good Work By Cdr Pathak , Col Joshipura and Col Rajan

My heartiest congratulations to Cdr Pathak, Col Joshipura and Col Rajan, for their success in making the ESM in Pune very active in favour of IES.
Keep it up Sirs.
God be with you all.
Regards.
Chander Kamboj

Good work by Cdr Pathak at Pune....by Gp Capt VK Gandhi, Secy Gen IESM

Dear Cdr Pathak

IESM Governing body is appreciative of efforts put in by you and ESM in Maharashtra for the welfare of ex-servicemen and IESM. GB supports the lunch on meeting with ex-servicemen. It shows greater commitment by the ex-servicemen that they are contributing for lunch. It is unfortunate that we are not able to attend the meeting due to some pressing personal problems at Delhi. Please explain our difficulty to all present.

Please carry on with the good work regardless of the opposition by some.

I wish you success and God Speed on behalf of all members of Gov Body.

Regards

Gp Capt VK Gandhi VSM
Gen Sec IESM

News from Dehra Dun by Lt Col BM Thapa..9th Anniversary of Dehradun Ex-services League; Shyampur Shakha

---------- Forwarded message ----------
From: Brij Mohan Thapa
Date: Tue, Jan 19, 2010 at 10:37 PM
Subject: : 9th Anniversary of Dehradun Ex-services League; Shyampur Shakha
To: aaa Brig C S Kamboj


Dear Brig Kamboj,
Many thanks for caring DOON VALLEY ESM. Though Rs 6450 has been depoited towards subscriptions/donations in IESM HDFC bank A/C during last week yet second list of ESM who have become life member will follow soon. More ESM are keen to become member of IESM provided reduced rate of subscription extended further. Kindly confirm.

I am enclosing report of more ESM activities of DOON VALLEY along with photographs of ESM function held on 17 Jan 10 attended by more than 400 ESM and families and also scan copies of News Paper Cutting of Himanchal Times and Garhwal Post. All ESM were happy during the function on hearing all activities of IESM and on receiving welcoming & congratulating message from the Chairman of IESM.






Shyampur Shakha of DESL celebrates its 9th Annual Day.

Shyampur Shakha of Dehradun Ex-Services League, situated beyond Prem Nagar, celebrated its 9th Annual Day on 17th January with great pomp and show at the premises of Sangam Public School. Brig(Retd) K.G.BEHL, President DESLwas the chief guest on the occasion and Smt.Manju Thapa, Gram Pradhan Arcadia,was special guest besides Shri D.S.Badola, Principal Sangam School, Lt Cols B.S.Chettri, R.K.Arya, ans B.M.Thapa, Secy. DESL. Vir Naries of the area. were especially invited.
The programme started with the lighting of lamp by the chief guest and others followed by Saraswati Vandana and welcome song by students and ESM ,especially composed by CPO C. B.Gurung.
The President of Shakha H/Capt. B.S.Thapa, welcomed the guests and the audience and reported about all welfare activities carried out during the year.
In his address Brig Behl, President DESL congratulated the members of the shakha on their raising Day and wished them a very happy and prosperous New Year 2010. He expressed his happiness that inspite of the inclement weather a large number of people have turned out in their gay mood and thanked members of the managing committee for arranging such a nice function and variety entertainment programme..
He was happy that most of the ex-Servicemen have got their arrears but wanted them to check where ever it is not as per figures given in the Pamphlet published by DESL. He expressed his happiness on Govt. agreeing to resolve some of the anomalies pointed out earlier but final orders are not yet out specially raising pension at the time of retirement from 50% to70%, which used to be maximum earlier. He informed the audience thatcase has been taken up with the PCDA and others for fixing pension on the basis of Grade Pay, as being done for fixing regular officers Pay and not the minimum of the scale as done now. It makes a big difference in pension.
Regarding ‘One Rank One Pension’ for which a large number of ESM have returned their medals and the agitation is going on at Delhi he expressed that our full support and a large number of ESM from Dehradun have become members there also. A committee was constituted by DESL which has worked out a table by which working of one rank one pension becomes simpler and Govt. need not to spend as nuch funds as dreaded. Hon’ble Defence Minister has been requested to give time for presentation before officials who are required to take decisions.
Brig Behl also explained about the progress being made in the working of ECHS. He later replied to the queries made by the members regarding various problems being faced and promised to take up the issues with the concerned authorities. He announced the sanction of Rs. 2500/- for the welfare activities.
The cultural programme continued which included Hindi, Rajasthani, Gorkhali,Garhwali and Punjabi songs and dances which were very much appreciated. Large number of school children participated in cultural programme who were awarded cash prizes by ESM for their excellent performance. Donation of Rs 1000.00 each was given by Lt Col S S Thapa, Lt Col B M Thapa and MCPO Class I -S S Panwar, Owner Gass Service for the welfare of Shakha ESM and Veer Narees.
Programme was compered by Lt Hari Singh Gurung, which was highly appreciated by all. It was organized very well by Capt B.S.Thapa Shakha President Shyampur and his team. Lt Col G.B. Gurung proposed the vote of thanks. It was followed by delicious lunch.

In Put
Lt Col B M Thapa,Retd
Gen Secy
D E S L

Sunday, January 17, 2010

SRI SATYA SAI BABA HONOURS VETERANS by Maj P Ravindran


-------------

From: Ravindran Major majorravi@gmail.com
Sent: 16 January 2010 08:16
Subject: SRI SATYA SAI BABA HONOURS VETERANS

There is some good news.
Sri Satya Sai Baba has asked his devotees to honour soldiers and veterans. So on Army Day, yesterday, all over the country Sai Samithi members had invited veterans and extolled their contributions. 9 veterans, including me, were there as guests at the local sai samithi where they gifted us a brass lamp, a steel tray, couple of sai books, and of course the prasad! The host while welcoming us said that 'bhagwan' always used to tell his devotees that they should look after their parents and those who failed to do so should never go to him. But 'this time' he also told them that they should ever be grateful to the soldiers who work tirelessly along the borders to secure this country so that 'all of us could enjoy the freedom to do what we want and sleep peacefully'.

I am NO devotee of Sri Sai Baba but I know that he is doing a lot of humanitarian services to the society. And when you think that those who are tasked, empowered and equipped to do these 'services' as a job - whom we normally refer to as the government- are only cheating us, and we have no option but to acknowldege them as human beings, then Sai Baba may definitely be raised to the category of bhagwan!
regards n bw

ravi
(Maj P Ravindran, Kalpathy,
Tamil Nadu)
-----------

ISSUE OF FULL LIQUOR QUOTA ON PRODUCING SMART CARD by QMG's Br

Tele 23092347
Army Headquarters
Quartermaster General’s Branch
Dy Dte Gen Canteen Services
New Delhi-110001

31 Mar 2006

No. 96301/Q/DDGCS
Headquarters
HQ Southern Command/Q (Ops)
HQ Eastern Command/Q (Ops)
HQ Western Command/Q (Ops)
HQ Central'Command/Q (Ops)
HQ Northern Command/Q (Ops)
HQ South Western Command/Q (Ops)
Army Training Command/Q (Ops)
HQ Andaman & Nicobar Command/Q
Air Headquarters (Dte of Org)
Naval Headquarters (DPS)
Coast Guard Headquarters

SUB : ISSUE OF FULL LIQUOR QUOTA ON PRODUCING
SMART CARD FROM ANY CANTEEN ACROSS THE COUNTRY

1. This HQ is receiving complaints from various quarters stating that some of the URCs are not giving full quota of liquor as authorized to an individual on smart card. Also it has been intimated by troops that URCs are not giving liquor on the smart card when they go on leave / temporary duty. It is reiterated that all personnel of armed forces are authorized to draw their full liquor quota from any URC in the country on producing the smart Card.

2. This is a facility extended to all ranks of Armed Forces. No URC will deny this facility to any
authorized customer. Necessary action may be initiated against the defaulting URCs in future.

3. Naval HQs have intimated that dependent members of their family are not being given canteen
stores without smart card, as already informed, Naval HQs is in the process of implementation of CIMS, till such time canteen facilities may not be denied to them.

4. HQ commands are requested to issue necessary instructions to call concerned on the above issues.

5. Naval HQs only. This disposes off your query on the subject.


(R S Khatri)
Lt Col.
Jt Dir CS



Copy to :

- DGNCC ]
- DGBR ]
- DG Assam Rifles ] For information please
- CSD HO, Mumbai ]
- Army HQ Canteen ‘Q’ Block

Letter to CNS on Majs Equiv pension By Lt Cdr PS Nath


From: P Surendra Nath ps_nath@yahoo.com
Sent: 16 January 2010 19:00
To: kamboj_cs@yahoo.co.in
Cc: brigbalan@foghornin.yahoo.com ; UNEXPECTED_DATA_AFTER_ADDRESS@.SYNTAX-ERROR
Subject: REVIEW OF PENSION FOR MAJORS AND EQUIVALENT

Dear Brig CS Kamboj, VSM Sir,

I am a retd Lt Cdr who is effected by the low pension after the VI CPC Recommendation implementation. I am honoured to read through your mail the interest taken by Veteran Officers and specifically to Brig Subramanian's honest attempt to look after the forgotten Majors' pension for review through a SOC.
I have gone through the case and wish to humbly submit my understanding of the case as a write up to this mail as attachment. The earlier Lr written by self to CNS and the explanation on Anomaly for Fitment of Pay Scales are also attached.

I shall be grateful if the same is gone through and projected to right authorities, including to Gen Kadyan of IESM. I shall be more than willing to clarify if any issue is not understood or expressed incorrectly.

Thanking you and with warm and respectful regards,

Yours sincerely,
Lt Cdr(Retd) PS Nath
Hyderabad
09440044680

----------
BY REGD POST WITH ACK DUE
E-Mail I.D : ps_nath@yahoo.com
Lt Cdr (Retd) PS Nath, 40662-N
Flat 107, Jalvayu Vihar
Kukatpally, JNTU Post
Hyderabad 500 072

242/PSN 30 Dec’2009

The Chief of Naval Staff
Naval Headquarters
D Block, Sena Bhavan
New Delhi – 110 011

REQUEST FOR REVIEW OF PENSION -
LT CDR (Retd)PS Nath,40662-N AS RECOMMENDED BY FIFTH CPC

Sir,

1) I have the honour to submit that I was a commissioned Naval Officer with back ground of initial education in Sainik School, trained as cadet at NDA(50th Course) before commission and worked in E(GS) branch with Lt Cdr sea time on the front line ship- SNF and also did graduation at DSSC, Wellington (46th course). However I retired after 20 years and 10 months of commissioned service on pm 30 Apr’1998 with original PPO No. 09/97/A/S/88/1998 dated 15 May 1998 and Corrigendum PPO No. 09/97/A/000421/99 dated 22 Jul’1999.

2) I humbly submit the following with regard to fixation of Pay/Pension and issue of PPO subsequent to implementation of Fifth CPC Recommendations and request to amend the deficiencies at the earliest through appropriate authorities since it impacts the subsequent implementation of VI CPC recommendations. I had detailed how I incurred losses whilst in service and subsequently with lesser pension than those who put in lesser commissioned service than self vide my letter of even number dated 24 Sep’2009 to Principal Director, Directorate of Ex-Servicemen Affairs, (copy enclosed) but sadly it was not acknowledged by him while PCDA (Pension), Allahabad vide letter No. AT/PSB/IV/E-Mail/Secd/AP dated 15 Oct’2009 confirmed that Pension was settled with relevant Govt Orders and that it was only the concerned Department that could settle my grievances and so this earnest appeal.

3) Fixation of Initial Pay for Lt Cdrs in the Revised Scales. Special Navy Instructions 2/S/98 at paragraph 5 detailed the fixation of Initial Pay in the revised scales after award of V CPC but failed to take into account the subsequent removal of anomalies arising from the implementation consequent to V CPC recommendations. Government of India, vide MOD letter No. I(26)/97/II/D(Pay/Services) dated 29 Feb’2000 while removing such anomalies in the implementation of V CPC recommendations had fixed pay of Majors and equivalents in substantive rank at Rs 11,925/- in the pay scale of Rs 11,600-325-14,850, in addition to rank pay but made effective from date of issue of this letter. Making 29 Feb’2000 as effective date is erroneous in law and tantamount to discrimination within the same class of Officers since it was a result of removal of anomalies from the approved V CPC award! Since the Government approved the recommendations of V CPC with effect from 01 Jan’1996, the removal/rectification of Anomalies arising out of the V CPC should also be made effective from the same date so that the justice is equitable to all serving officers on 01 Jan’1996 and thereafter. How could one set of Officers benefit subsequent to issue of letter while the other Officers, while still serving as on date of award of V CPC and its implementation, be denied the benefit of anomalies rectification by Government?!

4) Grant of Time Scale Promotions. Government of India vide MOD letter No. 14(1)/98/D(AG) dated 14 Jan’2000 promulgated revised guidelines/conditions for promotions to Lt Col(TS) and equivalent based on implementation of V th Pay Commission Recommendations as at Para 147.21 of report. Naval Headquarters vide letter JO/78 dated 14 Jan’2000 while promulgating these guidelines made the effective date as the date of issue of that letter. Since the Revised Norms for grant of such Promotions were a sequel to award/Implementation of V CPC Recommendations (Para 147.21) it is natural to Principles of Justice that these were made effective from 01 Jan’1996, which is the basic date of Government approval for Implementation of V CPC so that all Officers who were in Service are treated at par. Else, how could one set of Officers benefit subsequent to issue of letter while the other Officers, while still serving as on date of award of V CPC and its implementation be denied?! I would have been promoted to Cdr(TS) on 01 Jul 1997 on completion of 20 years of Commissioned service had the date of effect of the letter been 01 Jan’1996. Substantiating the above, Constitution of Ajay Vikram Singh committee by GOI subsequent to V CPC further amended the conditions of Promotions of Officers to make just 13 years of commissioned service to make it to Cdr in Navy. Though the letter on the implementations on the above recommendations was issued by the Government vide GOI letter No. 4(1)/US(MP)/D(N-II)/2004 dated 11 Mar’2005 and IHQ, MoD(Navy) letter No. NA/3102/Policy dated 14 Mar’05 – but the date of effect was given as 16 Dec’2004 which was the date of approval by the Government! It is therefore emphasized that the date of approval by the Govt is sacrosanct and in accordance with principles of Natural Justice.

5) It is nevertheless a fact that an Officer who sacrifices his youth in defence of Nation, with differing periods of Retirement but with same conditions of service, are looked after discriminately in terms of pension!! I further appeal to you, sir, which as a result of wrong implementation/effective date as explained in both the cases as above, Officers who put in less commissioned service than self but with equal conditions of service at the time of Implementation of V CPC are drawing more pensions just by virtue of retirement after me! Constitution Bench of Supreme Court in the case of DS Nakara & others vs Union of India (1983) stated that the retirement of an employee cannot form a valid criterion for classification – such classification is held arbitrary and unprincipled which does not stand the test of Article 14 of Constitution of India.

6) In view of the foregoing, I earnestly appeal to you, sir, to seek amendments to the effective date for both the above letters and I be considered as promoted to Cdr(TS) on 01 Jul’1997 and such suitable instructions be issued to the concerned CDA (Navy) to issue Corrigendum to PPO with payment of arrears as per the V CPC Recommendations.

Thanking you,
Yours faithfully,

(PS Nath)
Lt Cdr (Retd)
40662- N
Encl: Photocopy of PCDA Letter dated 15 Oct’09 as above

Reduced rates views by Brig Nawab Singh

Dear All,

I also strongly endorse the views that we must keep membership fees at the present lower level atleast till we enroll two lakhs members.

Drive to enroll is on let the momentum continue.

Regards,

Brig Nawab singh

Reduced rates by Air Cmde Raghubir Singh from Pune

Honourable Members of the Core Gp,

Kindly sustain the membership fee at current reduced rates if aim is to increase our numbers -so essential for the IESM voice to be audible where it matters. I would go a step further to allow even free membership in villages & remote areas at the discretion of State Convenors.Their their expenses should also be reimbursed. One lakh would make threshold level.

Air Cmde Raghubir Singh(Retd)

Request by Brig CS Kamboj on reduced rates for membership

16 Jan 10.

Reference email from Col Kumar appended below.
First of all, my sincere congratulation to Col Kumar and his wife for commendable success in enrolling new members.
Do keep up the good work.

Secondly – for those who will take the decision on the rates of membership – whether to continue with the present lower rates or revert to the old rates – please do keep in mind that the moment you announce the decision to revert to old higher rates of membership – the enrolment of new members will come to a standstill, at least for next few months.

Therefore, I once again humbly appeal to the decision makers to kindly extend the present reduced rate of membership for another three months.
This is what the majority of the ESM want. Their wishes should prevail over all other considerations.
This is what will make IESM successful in having large membership base.

For kind consideration of the Governing Body of IESM.

Regards to all members of Core Group and the Governing Body.
Chander Kamboj

Membership Drive by Col NA Kumar..Bangalore

From: CoreGpIESM@yahoogroups.com [mailto:CoreGpIESM@yahoogroups.com] On Behalf Of Ashok Kumar
Sent: 15 January 2010 23:36
To: CoreGpIESM@yahoogroups.com

Subject: Re: [CoreGpIESM] MEMBERSHIP DRIVE


Dear Friends,
This is Col Kumar...I attended the Vijay Diwas at Bangalore with my wife, and from then on began to enroll members into IESM in full swing. As a VCO's daughter (veteran from the II WW) she too enthusiastically participated in the drive. Together we have enrolled around 200 members within this short period of twenty days, (still going on strong) and I am very sure that an impetus has been the lowered fees. More forms have been handed out and we are awaiting their return and are on the follow up.
This reduced fees initiated by Col Rajan has been truly effective in creating a picture that we are keen on increased membership for strength and solidarity and not just finances of the org alone. Secondly, word is going around that the fees have been reduced...and it would take sometime to register this and create a reaction...we do not want to dissappoint those who came to hear of this 'late' by feeling that they have sort of 'missed the bus'. I am now beginning to get calls from interior districts too, asking about where to get the form to register, etc.
As some of us opine, perhaps delinking the move to increase the number of members from fund-raising drive could really be very meaningful.
I request that the lowered fees remain so at least until we have achieved our target of having suffcient number of new members enrolled and the difference registered as "before" and "after".
With warm regards and a keen interest in the task ahead,
Col N A Kumar

Thursday, January 14, 2010

A Case for Increasing the Pension of Majors and Equivalents...Views Pls by Col Raman

From: ramantn sarma
Sent: 12 January 2010 06:27
To: REPORT MY SIGNAL (CS Kamboj); TRUNCATED
Subject: [CoreGpIESM] Fw: A Case for Increasing the Pension of Majors and Equivalents.


Dear Veterans,

As stated earlier by me, Brig NBS, has put up a Draft S of C (Statement of Case), which I request all the ESM Associations to kindly go through, amend or improve as deemed fit by them.

Certain corrections & suggestions are also given below:

Under Para Added Problems by 6 CPC, please amend the figure to 25,700, from 26,700.

Emphasise more on the fact that the Pension of Veteran Majors of pre 2006, would be a reducing burden on the Exchequer, since this category would become nil in the near future.

While projecting the case, kindly quote the exact amounts of Pension, of the Sub Maj & Hony Capts vis a vis the Majors.

Future Course of Action.

With all humility, at the outset I would clarify that these are my submissions. Kindly do not interpret in any other form than that of sincere effort from our side, which includes Brig NBS & Col N Viswanathan.

This S of C covers basically the Army. The Navy & Air force may elaborate to include their own equivalent ranks. Better still will be to prepare a separate S of C to project their own similar case. Then take up a joint representation as it was done in the case of OROP. The joint leadership of Lt Gen Raj Kadyan (IESM), Brig RS Gulia (IESL) & the heads of Navy Foundation & Air Force Association may consider the representation to the Govt.

Lt Gen SK Bahri may again use his good offices to coordinate the effort. There might have been some differences of opinion in the case of OROP. But the case of Majors is uncomplicated & there can be no two views in the minds of the Veterans. We have to fight their case for the simple reason that every one us who retired prior to 6 th CPC, would have held that rank for at the least 8 to 13 years, before becoming Lt Col ( including the Acting Rank of Major).

It is also time for the Majors & equis from the other two Services to get together, on the lines of Maj Gens, & be prepared to take up the legal course in case the efforts mentioned above do not yield result.

If a joint representation made to cover only the issue of Pre 2006 retiree Majors, without involving any other issue, the chances of success are more. We may expect the PM to announce a favourable award from the ramparts of Red Fort on the 15 Aug 2010. Incidentally, the Majors may also set their target date as 15 Aug 2010 to take a final decision on the legal course of action. This would also give them adequate time to do their ground work.

I request that the Veterans who are in contact with the Navy Foundation & Air Force Association to kindly fwd this mail to them.

Regards & Best Wishes,

Col (Retd) TN Raman
(Veteran Raman)



--- On Mon, 11/1/10, Brig Subramanian wrote:

From: Brig Subramanian
Subject: A Case for Increasing the Pension of Majors and Equivalents.
To: "Col Raman T N." , "Col Viswanathan N" , "Col A Krishnaswami"
Date: Monday, 11 January, 2010, 8:10 AM
A Statement of Justification for Increasing the Pension of pre - 2006 Majors / Lcdrs / Sqn Ldrs.
The retired Majors / equivalents ( Herein after referred to as Majors,for brevity )as a group have been receiving a raw deal wrt their pension entitlements over the years, due to certain reasons, beyond their control. This can be seen from succeeding paragraphs.

Limited Promotion Avenues.
Before Cadre review, Lt Col was a prime selection grade rank. The COs of Bns, Regts, and of other major support units were Lt Cols, selected from the base of Majors. At different time periods and in different Arms and Services, just about one out of six to eight Majors ( 1 : 6 to 1 : 8 ) were promoted as Lt Cols, by trying to select the best out of the base of good Majors.
Bulk of otherwise good Majors, fit and competent, had to retire early as Majors only. The rejection rate was very high.

Lack of Vacancies.
At that time, there were just a handful posts of Colonels ; like the Centre Comdts,some staff posts etc., The Lt Cols were directly considered for promotion as Brigs. Here again, the selection was very limited.The left over Lt Cols continued to hold their vacancies in that rank. This had a cascading effect on the already non-selected Majors, closing the door for nearly all of them. These Majors suffered since then ; and continue to suffer till now,with low pension.

Early Retirement.
In Armed Forces, age of retirement is linked to the rank held by the officer. Higher the rank, later the date of retirement. The Majors were retired by the Govt very early in life at 48 yrs ( later raised to 50 yrs ), because of which most could not complete 33 years of service for full pension,even with the weightage. Therefore,their pension was reduced to a calculated fraction of an already low pension. That was the age at which their family commitments and liabilities in terms of education and marriage of wards was very high.

Was the Early Retirement Voluntary on Own Request ?
The obvious answer is NO. They have not sought voluntary retirement ( save exceptions ). To keep the officer profile young and to reduce the strength of superseded officers in units, it was the Govt's policy to release the Majors at 48 / 50 yrs, with a nominal pension.

Problems in Reaching the grade of Lt Col ( T S )
The qualifying service required for Lt Col ( T S ) was more than 25 years ; and the Majors were retired early at 48 / 50 years. Most of them could not complete the Q S required for earning the rank of Lt Col ( T S ).
The Officers commissioned from the ranks of NCOs - JCOs, suffered the worst. They naturally got their commission late, which left them little time to aspire for higher ranks. Most of them retired as Majors at 48 /50 years,on low pension.

Loss of Life Time Earning.
The Civ counterparts serve upto 58 years of age, about ten years more than the Majors. Because of early retirement, the Majors lose several lakh rupees in terms of P & A for ten years of truncated service ; as they would have been at the upper half of pay scale, when retired.
This huge loss, which is applicable to Armed Forces and NOT to Civ ( Majors, in the case under discussion ) is totally missed by the pay commission and the Govt, while working out common pay scales for civ and soldiers.

Recent Problems.
The recent policy changes in career profile and pension revision have added a new dimension to the already besieged Majors as follows.

Effect of Post 2004 Parity on Majors
Before 2004, a commissioned Officer required 13 years of service and passing of promotion exams, to earn the rank of Majors ; whereas, after 2004, with exactly the same QRs, the officers become Lt Cols. Thus,the erstwhile Majors, for all practical purposes should be treated equal to post 2004 Lt Cols, at least for pension parity; but in reality, the Majors get a pittance of pension, comparable NOT to the Lt Cols,as should be ; but to Hony Capts. There is a strong case to increase the pension of existing Majors on pension strength.

Added problems by 6th CPC.
The 6th CPC has caused a lot more harm to Majors on Pension than the 5th CPC. Please see these comparative figures given below regarding the pension of Lt Cols vis - a -vis Majors. ( in Rs per month )
CPC Lt Col Major Difference
5th 7,550 6,400 1,150

6th 25,700 14,100 12,600

The 6th CPC / Govt have widened the gap in pension between Majors and Lt Cols, by a large margin.
These Pensioned out senior Majors have silently suffered so much already. They have been again given the short shrift by both the 6th CPC and the Govt. They had little promotional avenues ; had to retire early ; lost huge sums by way of reduced life time earning ( as compared to Civ counter parts ) and got truncated pension due to early release and are now paid Rs 12,600 per month less pension than their equivalent Lt Col ( T S ). This is gross injustice.

Comparison with Lt Col (TS)
The job profiles of Lt col ( T S ) and Major are very much the same. In fact, Lt Col ( T S ) are posted against the vacancies tenable by Majors. But, a Lt Col ( T S ) earns a pension of Rs 26,700 while a Maj gets only Rs14,100 ; that is, Rs12,600 less than the time scale Lt Col. please compare this wide gap to the narrow difference in pension of Cols over Lt Cols ( Rs 350 only ) ; Brigs over Cols ( Rs 100 only )

D A Depressed on real terms of Money.
Since D A is calculated as a % of pension, their D A will also be less by Rs 12,600 x 27 % = Rs 3,400.( Proportionally, there will be more loss with every increase in D A / D P ) The real loss in terms of hard cash is Rs 12,600 + Rs 3,400 = Rs 16,000 per month.This is a huge recurring, cumulative loss every month to them.

Hony Capts / Sub Majs ( JCOs ) Drawing more than Majors.
The low pension of Majors has reached such abysmal levels that some Hony Capts / Sub Majs are drawing more pension that Majors. We can quote examples. At Chennai, a Lt Cdr. draws Rs 14,100 as pension, while a Sub Maj ,his neighbour, is drawing Rs16,000.
We are happy that the Hony Capts and Sub Majs get a reasonable pension. Our case is certainly not that their pension should be reviewed. The Majors,who commanded there senior PBOR, are getting less pension than them. Our request is that the pension of Majs, needs to be honourably stepped up.

The Importance of Majors in Forces.
Since we are discussing the pension problem of senior Majors, there is need to refresh their valuable contribution to Armed Forces, to get a correct prespective.
Before cadre review, the officers earned the substantive rank of Maj / equivalent after 13 years of qualifying service. By then, they had done all basic professional courses and had passed the promotion exams.With their seniority, they were the real working hands and work horses of the forces.
a ) Majs were ' Field Officers ' with lot of responsibility on them.
b ) Majs had lead their men as OCs of companies / Batteries / units in war ; and trained them in peace, under the COs directions. So did the Sqn Ldrs and Lt Cdrs with their command of Sqns and designated ships respectively.
c ) The casuality rate is always high in case of young officers, during their first 20 years of service, Lt / Capt / Majors.
d ) Military Administration , both routine ( commanding men, unit discipline, pay rolls, Koth, morale, ration, unit accounts, health of men, fire drills etc., ) and non -routine ( Cs of I, S of E, Bds of Offrs, garrison duties, ceremonials etc., ) rested mainly on the shoulders of Majors.
e ) Training of Capts and Subelterns was under the watchful eyes of the Majors.
These king pins of the armed forces should not be humiliated with very low pension, in their twilight years. Their contribution to the professionism of Army,Navy and Air Force should be well recognised.

Discussion on Possible Relief Options.

Shifting Majors/ Equivalents to PB - 4.
The most important factor in this suggestion is that it is first applicable to serving officers ; and then to the pensioners. It means that serving officers with 6 years service ( Current Majors ) will enter the PB-4 scale of 37,400 - 67,000. ( Even lesser service in case of AMC / ADC / RVC and other officers with antedate commission. )
A very large number of civ officers ( including Def civs ) of S-21, S-22, S-23 categories are on P B -3 scale of 15,600 - 39,000 with Gde Pay of Rs 7,600.They get a lesser pension of Rs 11,600 only. ( No MSP element ). If the Majors are moved to P B-4, however genuine our case may be, the civ will bring heavy pressure on Govt through their Unions and JCM to shift them also to P B -4. The Govt is not going to miss on this point. The Govt is not likely to accept this proposal.
It may be recalled that 6th CPC and Govt initially placed Lt Cols also on PB - 3 only. It was quite a task for the service chiefs to move the Lt Cols to P B-4. A fresh initiative to move Majs also to P B- 4, leaving only a small number of retd Capt and Lt pensioners in P B - 3 may not find favour with the Service HQ.
It is for consideration, if this proposal is worth persuing against such heavy odds.

Creating a New Pay Scale between P B - 3 and P B - 4 ( as PB-3 A or PB-4 Minus )
Another suggestion in circulation is creating an intermediate pay scale between P B - 3 and P B - 4 ( variously named as PB - 3 A or P B - 4 minus ) to bridge the huge gap between Majs and Lt Cols. Again, such a scale shall be first applicable to serving Majors with 6 yrs service onwards. No scale can be created to accommodate only pensioners. Since 6th CPC followed by Govt orders are combinedly applicable to military and a hoard of Civ officers, the Govt will have to adjust a large number of civs as well in the new scale. This suggestion is not likely to find favour.

To Fix the Majors' Pension at Maximum of P B -3 Scale.( 15,600 - 39,100 )
One of the proposals mooted is to grant exception to pre - 2006 Majors and base their pension at the highest level of Rs 39,100 instead of 15,600.
The Govt, in their implementaion orders on 6th CPC, have given partial parity to pre 2006 pensioners, by fixing Capts / Majors pension at the threshold of P B - 3 pay scale at Rs 15,600. Same is the case with pensioners on PB-4 scale.
A similar proposal was forwarded to Govt for all Military officers (under both P B-3 and PB-4 ), to which the Govt has not agreed. The recurring financial effect will be enormous.
An important point is that all Majs might not have reached the maximum of the pay scale and would have retired en route, at some stage of the scale. If maximum of scale principle for pension is adopted, many will get unearned higher pension of unreached levels, which lacks financial sanctity. This will not find favour with the govt or courts, for obvious reasons.
It is another matter that, if exception is granted to pre 2006 Majors only, there will be clamour from other civ and mil officers, to make the exception a rule for all, with their own justifications.

Bringing the pre 2006 Majors on par with pre 2006 Lt Col ( T S ) for pension purposes.
. Lt Col ( T S ) are posted against Major's vacancies. Both ranks are functionally the same. After Cadre review, most Majors had the advantage of extended retirement age on one hand and the shortened length of service reqd to become Lt Col ( T S ) on the other hand ; both of which were not available to erstwhile Majors, who retired at 48 / 50 yrs of age. Hence, there is good justification to equate Majs with Lt Col ( T S ) for pension purposes.
This proposal involves only adjustments with in military ranks ; so, the civs can have no say in it. The Civ associations / unions / JCMs can not intervene. The Govt can not take cover to scuttle the proposals citing possible demands on civ side.
Therefore, this proposal can be vigourously persued on sound logic.

Application of 20 years service for full pension.
In the cases filed in Supreme Court, after favourable judgement in Nakra's case, it is true that the Supreme Court did not allow OROP ; but they have laid down unambiguously that any new principle applied to one set of pensioners will be applicable ex post facto to all previous pensioners also, with out any cut off date. Now, applicability of 20 years Q S for full pension ( with out fractionalisation ) is one new principle applied to post 6th CPC pensioners ; there is no legal bar as to why it can not be applied equally to all old pensioners - Majors and equivalents in this particular case.
This will be another good option to persue.

Recommended Final Course of Action.
Having considered all the above options on merits of each, it is suggested that the case be persued on following lines.
a )Clubbing pre 2006 Majors / Equivalents with pre 2006 Lt Cols ( T S ), notionally for pension purposes.
b ) Applicability of 20 years service for full pension.
Both the above suggestions are winnable propositions. They,duly combined, can give substantial relief to Majors / Equivalents.

Financial Effect.
The number of Majors drawing pension is limited. A figure of 500 is often mentioned ; it may not exceed 1,000 and in any case, will gradually diminish to nil in coming years,since the current crop of serving officers will become Lt Cols in 13 years.
Therefore, doing belated justice to existing Majors by adopting the above recommendations will hardly cause even a scratch on Govt's finances, leave alone a dent. The annual additional pension burden is expected to be as low as 15 crores only. ( For 1,000 Majors x Rs 12,600 per month x 12 months = Hardly 15 Crores. )

Presonal Note
I take this opportunity to thank my unknown friends, Maj Bhupal Singh, Maj S Lakshmanan, Maj Ravi Gujral, Lcdr R E Balasubramanian, Maj S K Jain, Maj Ravindran, Vet Ved Sachar, Maj C N Anand and collegues Col T N Raman and Col N Viswanathan, for their ideas and suggestions.
About Navy and Air Force, I plead ignorance of ground data at working levels for Sqn Ldrs and Lcdrs. May I request the Navy and Air Force officers to embellish this paper with their intimate knowledge.

Warm Regards,
NBS.


-----------

More IESM members by Hony Lt K Pandey

Dear and Respected Sir,

Under the new slashed membership fees the following are the 45 more IESM members who have joined our family.
1. Hony Capt Himant Singh

2. CFN Mehar Singh

3. Hav Daleep Singh

4. Sep Sardar Singh

5. DFR Kanahaiya Lal
6. L/DFR Jit Singh

7. Hav Raj Singh

8. Hav Ran Singh
9. Sowar Hari Singh
10. Sep Chhatar Singh

11. N/Sub Dayawanti Devi

12. Sep Tasviro Devi
13 DFR Jaswanti Devi

14 Nk C P Joy

15. Sgt Sudhakaran

16. Nk Jomy O C

17. Sgt Benng Verghese

18. Hav Babu George

19. Sgt Anil Kumar Sarswat

20. Nk Aphrem K P

21. Cpl Jose C Thomas A V Nagar

22. Cfn Aniyankunju

23. Nk Vijaya Kumar

24. Hav K T Joseph

25. JWO Shashi Rajan Mishra
26. Sub G D Chamola
27. JWO S R Mahato

28. Sub Rabindra Kumar

29. HFO R P Singh
30. H/Sub Maj Bhagawan singh

31. Sub P N Sharma

32. Sub Radhey Shyam Rajsthan
33. Sub Sunder Singh
34. POELP Sunita Devi

35. Nk Vishnu Singh

36. Nk Jaswant Singh

37. Hav Rohitash Singh Najaf Gharh

38. Nk Bomy Sebastiyan

39. Nk Raghubir Singh Shyamnagar

40. Hav JS Morya

41. Nk RA Pandey

42. Hav N J Tiwari

43. POA(AH) Balvender Singh

44. Hav S K Pandey

45 Sgt A K Pandey

Thank you.
Yours truly,

Kameshwar

--
Kameshwar Pandey
Sub/Maj Hony. Lt. (Veteran)

230, Pocket-1,
DDA SFS Flats, Sector-1,
Dwarka, New Delhi - 110 075

Reduced rates Views By Brig Kamboj

13 Jan 10.
Dear Members,
First of all Very Happy Lohri, Very Happy Sankranti and Very Happy Pongal to all of you.

Reference emails below.

Taking first the suggestion of Cdr Pathak, yes Associate Membership is helping in registering more members tremendously but why –

because the rates of membership are low for Associate Membership.

Now for views below by Gen Jaini –

Sir,
1. I wish to submit that till the time IESM continues to link the requirement of funds with the requirement of numbers of members required for struggle for justice and recognition by the Govt of India (and by the ESM or public), success will continue to evade us.


2. In my humble opinion, the path to our success lies in delinking the requirement of more funds from the requirement of more members.


3. Very rightly during the last Core Group meeting at Noida, held about two months ago, it was decided that –


a. An exclusive drive for collection of funds will be started.


b. A suitable letter will be drafted by the Governing Body and circulated among the Core Group Members and the ESM.


c. Members in groups should go around and collect funds from the ESM who are very well to do and collect funds from corporate offices – large or small.


4. Would Gen Jaini kindly tell us what happened to the decision at Para 3 above?


5. I am constrained to state that majority of the members in the Governing Body are obsessed with the idea that higher membership fee is essential for larger amount of funds required for success of IESM. Till the time this idea is revised – we will neither have sufficient funds nor sufficient number of members!!! - Choice is yours.


6. Many of us have pointed and the Governing Body is fully aware that large membership fee only leads to more money in the corpus and not for immediate requirement of funds!!! THEN WHY WE ARE AGAIN PLEADING FOR HIGHER MEMBERSHIPS FEE?


7. Point raised by Gen Jaini about legal hassles being a very heavy load on few of the Governing Body members is very valid but, does it mean we stop the drive for more members and more funds???


8. Point raised by Gen Jaini that review whether lower membership fee has helped – very valid point. Please compare the members enrolled during period 13 Aug 08 to 14 Dec 09 (16 months ie 4000/16) to the members already enrolled since 15 Dec till date (one month).

Please at least extend the period of lower membership fee for another 3 months.

In addition, please remember - the day you revert the membership fee to the original rates – enrolling of new members will come to almost a stand still.

Even if you feel that reducing the membership fee has not helped - reverting it to higher level will have drastic adverse effect on enrolling more members.

I most humbly appeal to the Honourable Members of the Governing Body and the Honourable Members of the Core Group to dispassionately think on two separate issue –
A - how to enrol more members and


B – how to raise more funds.


Delink these two issues if you do not want the IESM movement to die down prematurely.

Very fond regards to all of you –
Have nice celebrations of the festivals that are on.
God by with you and your families.
Chander Kamboj

Continuing membership drive at reduced rates By Hony Lt K Pandey

Dear and Respected Gen Kadyan sir,

This email has reference to and is in continuation with emails from Col Rajan, Brig Kamboj and other senior veterans.

I have always and from the very beginning one of the strongest advocates of the reduced membership fees. In a span of about three weeks I too have been able to motivate more than a hundred (and counting) veterans to sign up for the membership. I have been able to organize meetings, delegate people, distribute forms and receive an unprecedented response. Solely because of the fact that the membership fees is affordable to all now.

Lets think from the perspective from a retired NCO who gets a mere 3-5 thousand rupees monthly pension. He/she CANNOT be sure of what he will or will not get for becoming a member. Why will he pay Rs 100/- for something he does not know or does not believe in? What's the point?

On the other hand, Rs. 10 is a small amount for even him and if he sees even a glimpse of hope he will readily pay that money then and there.

I also agree with other senior veterans who have very thoughtfully suggested that raising money for our mission and essential operations should be taken up as a separate activity.

Thus I very very strongly recommend continuing the reduced membership fees so that we reach huge numbers and thus become a force to reckon with for the government.

Thank you for your time.

Yours truly,

Kameshwar

--
Kameshwar Pandey
Sub/Maj Hony. Lt. (Veteran)

230, Pocket-1,
DDA SFS Flats, Sector-1,
Dwarka, New Delhi - 110 075

Cell : +91-9811059825
Home: +91-11-3296 6701
email: pandeykameshwar@gmail.com

New Members-IESM -Tamilnadu‏ By Col Raman

Sir,

The following Veterans' on line registration has been completed today.

Surg Capt CV Natarajan, Capt (IN) J Subbiah, CPO Venkatesh Prasad & Lt Col HSR X'mas.

Received from Lt Col Jai Ram, Thanjavur, 100 Membership Forms for on line Registration.

Another 100 forms are expected from the out lying areas by 16 Jan.

Cdr Vaidyanathan from Trichy has collected some 60 members. The forms are awaited from him. Since he is admitted in the Hospital, it may take some time.

Best Wishes,

Col (Retd) TN Raman
IESM

Cdr V Vaidhyanathan's condition

Respected Veterans,
Jai Hind.
Half an hour ago, Mrs Vaidhayanathan informed me that Cdr Vaidhyanathan is still in the ICU; but is feeling a lot better today. WE pray for Cdr Vauidhyanathan's speedy recovery.
Regards,
Col Rajan

The Last Train from Gun Hill. Father of 2 LT Arun Khetrapal, PVC

Brig ML Khetrapal father of 2 Lt Arun Khetrpal,PVC died recently. This narration is a very touching one.

Brig ML Khetrapal:

My son goes to Sanawar, a school up in the Himalayas. It used to be a Military school (154 years old) and like any old school, Sanawar has its fair share of heroes amongst its old students. One such hero from that school that I want to write about is 2nd Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, son of Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal. He was born on
14 October 1950, in Pune, Maharashtra. He was commissioned in the 17 Poona Horse on 13 June 1971, just a few months before the Indo-Pakistan 1971 war. The story of his heroism is as follows:

During the 1971 Indo-Pak War, the 47 Infantry Brigade, with the 17 Poona Horse under command, was ordered to establish a bridge-head across the Basantar river in Shakargarh sector. The 47 Inf. Bde. completed the task by 2100 hours on December 15th. It was now for the engineers to breach the Pakistani mine-fields and make a safe lane for the induction of the 17 Poona Horse in support of the bridge-head.

While the engineers were half way through their task, the Indian troops at the bridge-head reported alarming activity of the Pakistani armour. They requested immediate tank support. But the mine-field had been cleared only partially by that time. At this critical juncture, the 17 Poona Horse decided to push through the mine-field come what may. By first light on December 16th, the regiment established a link-up between the armour and the infantry at the bridge-head.

At 0800 hours, the Pakistanis made a counter-attack with an armoured regiment, under the cover of a smoke-screen. The target was the regimental pivot at Jarpal. As the Indians troops were heavily outnumbered, the Commander of 'B' Squadron requested reinforcement. At that time, 2nd Lt. Khetarpal was positioned close to the squadron with his troops in two tanks. He answered the call and moved out to face the Pakistani attack. On the way, his troops came under fire from Pakistani strong points and recoilless gun nests, in the bridge-head zone.

2nd Lt. Khetarpal fiercely attacked these strong-points, over-ran Pakistani defences and captured many Pakistani soldiers and recoilless guns at gun point. During one of these attacks, the commander of his second tank was killed on the spot leaving him alone. But he continued attack on the Pakistani strongholds single-handed, until all the Pakistani positions were overwhelmed. He then raced to the 'B'Squadron position. By the time he reached there, the Pakistani tanks were on the retreat. He pursued and destroyed one of these tanks. The 'B' Squadron Commander could persuade him to fall back in line after great difficulty.

The Pakistanis soon reformed for a second attack. This time they chose the sector held by 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal and two other Officers, for the main attack. The Pakistani employed a complete armoured squadron against these three tanks in order to achieve a breakthrough.

A fierce tank battle followed. As many as ten Pakistani tanks were destroyed and of these 2nd Lieutenant Khetarpal alone destroyed four... In the thick of the battle, two of the three Indian tanks became casualties-one was hit and another suffered mechanical failure.

The third tank, which was 2nd Lt. Khetarpal's tank, also received a shot and burst into flames. The Commander of the tank troops ordered 2nd Lt. Khetarpal to abandon the burning tank. But realising the useful role of his tank in preventing a breakthrough he communicated the following message to his Commander: "No Sir, I will not abandon my tank. My gun is still working and I will get these guys."

Then he set about destroying the remaining Pakistani tanks. The last Pakistani tank which he shot was barely 100 metres from his position. At this stage his tank received a second hit. The brave Officer met his death denying the Pakistani the intended breakthrough.

For his conspicuous gallantry in the face of the Pakistani, 2nd Lt. Arun Khetarpal was honoured with the highest wartime gallantry medal, the Param Vir Chakra, posthumously.

He was the youngest Indian to win this highest award. The Indo-Pakistan war of 1971, nearly 38 years ago is history for most of us.

However a strange sequel was to follow for the Khetarpal family.

Many years later, India and Pakistan established 'people to people' contacts between both the nations. This was also known as 'Twin Track Diplomacy'.

Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal, father of 2nd Lt. Khetarpal started receiving messages that a certain Brigadier from the Pakistani army was keen to meet him. However since he did not know this particular Brigadier, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal did not do anything to encourage the meeting.

In 2001, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpa, now 81 years old, felt a strong desire to visit his birthplace, at Sargodha, now in Pakistan. It was a wish that he thought that would never materialize, but when he voiced it to some friends engaged in the Twin Track Diplomacy, they arranged all his papers, visas, travel and staying arrangements in Pakistan so that he could go for the visit.

At Lahore airport, Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal was met by Brigadier Khawja Mohammad Naser, who took it upon himself to be Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal host and guide. Brigadier Naser really went out of way to ensure that Brigadier M..L. Khetarpal had a satisfying and nostalgic visit to his old house in Sargodha. Upon his return to Lahore he was once again the guest of Brigadier Naser for three days.

Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal was overwhelmed by the extreme kindness, deference, courtesy and respect bestowed upon him by Brigadier Naser, all the members of his family and his many servants.

As the countdown for the departure progressed, the bonds of friendship between the guests and the host grew stronger and stronger. However Brigadier Khetarpal felt that something was amiss but could not make out what it was. Was it the long silences that punctuated their animated conversation or was it the look of compassion in the eyes of the women in the family. He could not make out. However what was certain was that he would always remember the hospitality, warmth and affection of this Pakistani family who treated him as someone very very special.

Finally at the last night before Brigadier M.L.Khetarpal's departure, Brigadier Naser said 'Sir there is something that I wanted to tell you for many years but I did not know how to get through to you. Finally fate has intervened and sent you to me as an honoured guest.

The last few days we have become close to one another and that has made my task even more difficult. It is regarding your son who is of course a national hero in India. However on that fateful day, your son and I were soldiers, unknown to one another, fighting for the respect and safety of our respective countries. I regret to tell you that your son died in my hands. Arun's courage was exemplary and he moved his tank with fearless courage and daring, totally unconcerned about his safety. Tank casualties were very high till finally there were just two of us left facing one another. We both fired simultaneously. It was destined that I was to live and he was to die.

It is only later that I got to know how young he was and who he was. We are trained to fight and kill without mercy or remorse. We do in war what we have to without thinking too much about it. However we are humans too and sometimes war takes a personal turn and makes an impact on the inner self..

I had all along thought that I would ask your forgiveness, but in telling the story I realize that there is nothing to forgive. Instead I salute your son for what he did at such a young age and I salute you too, because I know how he grew into such a young man. In the end it is character and values that matter."

Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal was silent as he did not know how to react. To be faced with the person who killed his son, and also to be enjoying his hospitality and being his guest is a confusing feeling. However Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal immediately realized that Brigadier Naser was genuinely wanting, in some way to compensate for something that he did only in the line of duty. The soldier must do what he has been trained to do unhesitatingly, and with full resolve and determination.

Both the Brigadiers retired for the night deep in thought. There are never any victors in war, both sides lose and it is the families that have to pay the price and suffer the most.

As someone once said ' Wars are created by politicians, compounded by bureaucrats and fought by soldiers.

The next day photographs were taken and Brigadier M.L. Khetarpal returned back to Delhi. Later the photos reached Delhi along with a note from Brigadier Naser that said:

With Warmest regards and utmost sincerity,

To: Brigadier M.L.Khetarpal, father of Shaheed Second Lieutenant Arun Khetarpal, PVC, who stood like an unsurmountable rock, between the victory and failure, of the counter attack by the 'SPEARHEADS' 13 LANCERS on 16 December 1971 in the battle of "Bara Pind' as we call it and battle of "Basantar' as 17 Poona Horse remembers.


Khawja Mohammad Naser, 13 Lancers (Pakistan Army)
02 March 2001 Lahore, Pakistan

Monday, January 11, 2010

Prime Minister's Scholarship for Ex Servicemen for 2010

Dear Friends,
Jai Hind.
Reference advertisement regarding Kendriya Sainik Board Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme is appended below.
I tried to locate the application form for the scholarship on the website: http://mod.nic.in. It is very difficult to find it from that website.
I made a general search and found the brochure and the form is available at:Click Here
At this website click on PM'S Scholarship Scheme for wards of ex-servicemen/ widows to download the brochure and the application form.

Brig C Kamboi (Retd)

***********************************************************************

PRIME MINISTER’S SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME


ACKNOWLEDGEMENT SLIP

OFFICE COPY


Your Application Form dated_________ has been received on__________. The application will be examined for eligibility. The dak receipt number ____________ is to be mentioned for further correspondence with this office.




Office Seal: (Signature of RSB)




Tear off Tear off



ACKNOWLEDGEMENT SLIP

STUDENT COPY


Your Application Form dated_________ has been received on__________. The application will be examined for eligibility. The dak receipt number ____________ is to be mentioned for further correspondence with this office.




Office Seal: (Signature of RSB)



Note: This copy duly stamped and signed by RSB given to the student by hand or by post. (Envelope enclosed along with the application may be used.)



MINISTRY OF DEFENCE
Department of Ex-Servicemen Welfare
PM’S SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME
FOR
DEPENDENT WARDS OF EX-SERVICEMEN / WIDOWS

Brochure-Cum-Application Form

For Academic Year 2009-10



Application Form consists of Col No 1 to 20, Renewal Form and list of RSB at state and UT level. (Brochure-Cum-Application consists of 31 pages)

KENDRIYA SAINIK BOARD
West Block-IV, Wing-VII, 2nd Floor
R K Puram, New Delhi-110066
Website: www.mod.nic.in
Tele : 011- 26715250
E-Mail : jdpmscholarshipksb@gmail.com

Note: This application form (page number 13 to 22 alongwith required documents only) is to be deposited by individual to RSB. Applications duly recommended by RSB’s shall only be considered by KSB. Therefore, candidates are advised not to forward applications direct to KSB as the same shall not be considered.

PRIME MINISTER’S SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME

1. Introduction.

To encourage higher technical and professional education for the dependent wards of ESM and their widows (below officer rank only) and dependent wards / widows of ex-servicemen who died in harness due to causes attributed to military service, irrespective of the rank, Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme has been introduced from the Academic year 2006-07.


2. Scholarships Available.

A total number of 4000 scholarships will be allotted.


3. Students eligible for the scholarship.


(a) Dependent wards of ex-servicemen and their widows (below officer rank only)

(b) Dependent Wards/widows of ex-servicemen who died in harness due to causes attributed to military service, irrespective of the rank.

(c) The scheme is open only for widows and wards of ESM.

Note: (i) The candidate irrespective of his marital status is eligible for PMSS. However, an earning / serving candidate is not eligible.

(ii) For dependent wards of widows and widows of personnel died in harness due to causes attributable as at (b), there will be no rank restriction.


4. How to Apply For Scholarship.

One candidate to submit only one application form for one course, if any candidate submit two application for more than one course, both the applications will be rejected. Forms are to be downloaded from the website www.mod.nic.in. Application forwarded on any other format will not be considered.

Application to be forwarded on plain A4 size paper (typed or handwritten) in the prescribed format duly completed in all respects with superscription on the envelope “Prime Minister’s Scholarship Scheme.”

Documents to be attached alongwith PMSS application form are as follows:-

(a) Photocopy of ESM valid I card duly certified by RSB / ZSB.
(b) Extract of ESM discharge book as per specimen. (Refer page number 22)
(c) Matriculation certificate duly attested.



(d) Minimum Entry Qualification certificate duly attested. (10+2 Marksheet or full Graduation Marksheet which ever is applicable)

(e) Bonafide studentship certificate from Collage in original as per specimen. (Refer page number 21)
(f) Demand Draft of Rs. 30/- not made before 20th December 2009.

Note: Failure to attach any above mentioned documents / certificate will lead to rejection.

5. Selection Procedure.

Applications will be short listed based on Ex-servicemen category (as given in para 6) and percentage of marks obtained in minimum entry qualification (MEQ).

6. PRIORITY for Grant of Scholarship.

Order of preference for allotment of scholarships will be as under:-

Category 1 Wards/ widows of defence personnel killed in action.

Category 2 Wards of ex-servicemen disabled in action and boarded out of service with disability attributable to military service.

Category 3 Wards/widows of defence personnel who died while in service for causes attributable to military service.

Category 4 Wards/widows of Defence personnel disabled in service with disability attributable to military service.

Category 5 Wards of ex-servicemen in receipt of gallantry awards.

Category 6 Wards of ex-servicemen (PBOR).

7. Eligible Courses.

First year professional degree programme in BE, B Tech, BDS, MBBS, B Ed, BBA, BCA, B Pharma, etc. duly recognized by the respective government regulatory bodies, such as All India Council for Technical Education, Medical Council of India, UGC etc. The scheme is open for courses mentioned above in recognized institutions (in India only). Students studying abroad are not eligible for this scheme. Students getting stipend for the professional degree course are also not entitled. The candidates may avail only one time facility for first degree course (Professional) i.e. graduate level only under PMSS.


8. Scholarship for Integrated Courses.

The facility under PMSS is restricted for professional courses only duly recognized by the respective Government regulatory bodies such as All India Council for Technical Education, Medical Council of India etc.



9. Minimum Eligible Marks in 10+2 or Graduation.
(Minimum Educational Qualification for Entry) should be 60%.

Minimum educational qualification (MEQ) for entry to different professional course is different e.g. for MBBS and B E it is 10+2 where as it is graduation for B Ed and MBA. A candidate must have minimum 60% marks in MEQ to be considered for scholarship.

10. Duration of Scholarship.

Two to five years as approved by the concerned regulatory body (Except one year for B Ed and five and half years for MBBS).

11. Amount of Scholarship.

a) The amount of scholarship would be as follows:

(i) Rs. 1250/- per month for boys Paid after successful completion of each
academic year.
(ii) Rs. 1500/- per month for girls

12. Renewal of Scholarship.

Candidate shall submit new Renewal Form along with two acknowledgement slip and Bonafide Certificate duly signed by the Principal / Dean / Registrar of the institution / college to the respective RSBs either in person or by post for renewal of scholarship for the subsequent academic year. RSBs will scrutinize and check the application forms and forward the same complete in all aspects to KSB immediately. RSBs will issue acknowledgement slip to the candidates at the time of submission of the application in person otherwise dispatch by post to them. Candidate to attach a self addressed envelope, duly stamped to receive the acknowledgement of renewal form by post. For easy comprehension an illustration has been given below:-
Student admitted in B Tech. September 2008
Marks in 10+2. 61%
Applied for PMSS. Before 31 December 2009
Finds his name in the list of 4000 successful candidates selected for grant of PMSS. June 2009
Applied for first renewal of Scholarship by submitting first year / first two semester result. October 2009
Granted first installment. December 2009
Applied for second renewal of Scholarship by submitting second year / second two semester result. October 2010
Granted second installment. December 2010
Applied for third renewal of Scholarship by submitting third year / third two semester result. October 2011
Granted third installment. December 2011
Applied for fourth renewal of Scholarship by submitting fourth year / fourth two semester result. October 2012
Granted fourth installment. December 2012

* Dates given above are to illustrate an example for easy comprehension and the same may not be quoted as authority.

IMPORTANT INSTRUCTIONS FOR PM’S SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME






(a) “PM SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME” is to be written in superscript on top of the Envelope for any correspondence with KSB & RSB.

(b) Checklist duly signed by student & parent is to be attached on the top of the application form.

(c) Applications alongwith relevant documents & certificates are to be deposited to respective Rajya Sainik Board, “latest by 15th Feb 2010. Incomplete application form and non submission of required document is liable to be rejected and will be returned unactioned. The application will be received by the RSBs and will be acknowledged with a seal and date of receipt.

(d) The concerned RSBs may scrutinise / check the application forms with regard to their eligibility criteria from all aspects prior to forward the same to KSB.

(e) Candidates and RSB’s to note that all applications received after the due date will not be considered and returned unactioned.

(f) List of selected candidates will be forwarded to RSBs after the merit list is finalized by the BOO at KSB.

(g) Three stamped (Rs. 5 each) blank envelopes of 27x12 cms and one stamped (Rs. 35) blank envelope of 35x25 cms are to be attached with each application so as to facilitate correspondence with the candidate by KSB/RSB.

(h) The scholarship is admissible for only two children of ESM. Particulars of all children should be indicated in column 17 of application form. This should be in uniformity with the discharge book / certificate of the ESM.

(i) The amount of scholarship, including any other scholarship or financial assistance from any other source will not exceed the total grant of assistance available under this scheme.

(j) The payment of scholarship will be granted after the successful completion of each academic year and on the submission of the renewal form (in original), as per the percentages mentioned in ‘Criteria for eligibility’. In case, KSB ask a student to submit the mark sheet for the full year, a student is liable to produce the same, failing which the scholarship will be held up.

(k) Candidature of a student shall stand automatically rejected if, at any stage, it is discovered that he / she has secured scholarship fraudulently by making false statement or misrepresentation of facts. Candidate shall have to refund the amount already given, if any.

(l) The attached photocopies of the supporting documents should be duly attested by gazetted officer (unattested documents will not be considered). In case of legally adopted son/daughter or child born after retirement, the certificates are to be attached with the application form duly attested by Secretary, RSB / ZSB.

(m) If the marks in the qualifying examination are expressed in grades only, then equivalent percentage (100 point scale) duly certified by the concerned college / Board must be furnished (RSB & KSB will not be calculating the percentage of marks).

(n) All candidates to open individual bank accounts in the nearest State Bank of India branch or Punjab National Bank which has “electronic clearance system” / Core Banking, to facilitate transfer of the scholarship amount. Account number of the sister concern bank will not be accepted. i.e State Bank of Travancore, State Bank of Bikaner & Jaipur, etc. Candidate to attach a attested photocopy of passbook, showing name and account number of the individual. A cancelled leaflet of a blank crossed cheque will duly authenticate the account number. A joint account with parent will also fulfill the requirement.

(o) The candidates should have secured a minimum of 60% marks at 10+2 / MEQ level or equivalent and have to secure minimum of 50% marks, uninterrupted for continuation of scholarship in every year for the duration of course up to a maximum period of 5 years as prescribed for that programme of study. A person granted scholarship for one programme would not be entitled for scholarship for another programme.

(p) In case of change of any address, course, college, it is to be intimated immediately to Kendriya Sainik Board & Rajya Sainik Board in writing. Always mention selection serial number, name of applicant and ESM particular for any correspondence with KSB & RSB after getting selected for the scholarship.

(q) The Ministry of Defence, Government of India can suitably modify these instructions to remove anomalies, if any, for successful implementation of the scheme, as may be necessary from time to time and will be applicable to all students under the scheme.

(r) Ex-servicemen entitlement will be governed as per the existing definition of ex-servicemen, as amended from time to time. The definition is available in the guide book available with the RSB/ZSB.

(s) The application form should be downloaded from the official website of MOD, i.e. www.mod.nic.in. The application form should be submitted to the respective Rajya Sainik Board, (List of RSBs is attached along with the brochure) duly completed, along with a Demand Draft (Repeat) Demand Draft only for Rs.30/- in favour of Secretary, Kendriya Sainik Board, payable at New Delhi. In case of any difficulty in obtaining the form, the same can be obtained from the Secretary / Director Rajya Sainik Board. The Demand Draft should not be issued before 20th December 2009 (the Demand Draft is not refundable in any case).

(t) While filling the application form, leave 1 (one) box blank between 2 (Two) words. Column wise guidelines are explained further for filling up the application form.

COLUMN WISE GUIDE LINES FOR FILLING UP OF APPLICATION FORM

(i) Column -1. Fill your name as in matriculation certificate only:-
(Not to be filled in any other format.)

1st Name A J A Y
Middle Name S I N G H
Surname R A N A

(ii) Column -2. Put a tick (√) mark as shown.

Male √ Female

(iii) Column – 3. Date of Birth as shown in matriculation certificate only. For Example:- (10 June 1982)

D D M M Y Y Y Y
1 0 0 6 1 9 8 2

(iv) Column – 4. Mention your Rajya Sainik Board and Zila Sainik Board name, from where your father / mother have registered and have obtained ex-servicemen / widow identity card.

(v) Column – 5. Write your permanent address and correspondence address in block letters.

(vi) Column – 6. Write phone number along with STD code and email ID for any query (email ID is must).

(vii) Column – 7. Category as per para 6 to be written (attach the required document, if any). Category 1 (One).

Category - 1 O N E

(viii) Column – 8. Full Particulars of Father/ Ex-Serviceman is to be mentioned as per the discharge book. A blank space to be provided between names. (Example: - KAMLESH CHANDRA CHOUDHURY)

K A M L E S H C H A N D R A C H O U D H U R Y

1 4 5 2 3 6 K

S E R G E A N T

A I R F O R C E


(ix) Column – 9. Details of 10+2 or MEQ. Leave blank space between words. Marks to be shown in words and figures.

a. Total Marks O N E T H O U S A N D
(in words) T W O H U N D R E D
(in figure) 1 2 0 0

b. Marks obtained N I N E H U N D R E D
(in words) F O R T Y
(in figure) 9 4 0

c. % of marks scored S E V E N T Y E I G H T
(in words) P O I N T T H I R T Y
T H R E E
(in figure) 7 8 . 3 3


(x) Column – 10. Tick as applicable.

Yes √ No

(xi) Column – 11. The student is to specify the course which he / she is presently studying. (Example:- B TECH)

B T E C H


(xii) Column – 12. Duration of the course both in numbers and figures to be mentioned. For example 5 years 6 months.



(In figure)
Y Y M M
0 5 0 6

(In word)
F I V E Y E A R S A N D S I X
M O N T H S


(xiii) Column – 13. Write date of commencement & completion of course as shown below:

(Course Commencement / Date of Admission)
D D M M Y Y Y Y
0 1 0 7 2 0 0 7

(Course completion)
D D M M Y Y Y Y
3 1 1 2 2 0 1 2


(xiv) Column - 14 Write the full name and address of the college with email ID and phone number of principal.
Name of Student A J A Y S I N G H R A N A


Roll No. 0 8 E A T I T 0 4 3

Name of College A J M E R I N S T I T U T E
O F T E C H N O L O G Y


Full Address P U S H K A R B Y P A S S A
of college J M E R



State R A J A S T H A N

Pin Code 3 0 5 0 0 4


Tel No. (with STD Code) 0 1 4 5 - 2 3 0 0 6 2 8

E-Mail ID (if any) a i t _ a j m e r @ r e d i f f m a i
l . c o M

College Website w w w . a i t a j m e r . c o m


(xv) Column - 15 Write the regulatory body of your college.

A I C T E

(xvi) Column – 16. Furnish the particulars of your all children as per specimen given:-

Sl. No. Name of Child Gender Date of Birth Age
1 Prakash Singh Rana M 10/10/1982 27 Years
2. Satish Singh Rana M 12/05/1984 25 Years
3. Ajay Singh Rana M 03/07/1987 22 Years
4. Komal Rana F 14/02/1989 20 Years



(xvii) Column – 17. Given details of the scholarship availed by your brother / sister in the past, if not availed write Not Applicable.

Sl. No. Selection Serial No. given by KSB Name of the brother/sister Course of Study Academic year in which applied Amount received so far
1. 6359 Satish Singh Rana B Tech 2007-09 15000


(xviii) Column - 18 Please write the full details of bank account of the student and attach the photocopy of passbook and cancelled cheque as required to verify the correctness of the account number (individual student account is preferred. However, a joint account with the father / mother is also accepted).

Name of account holder A J A Y S I N G H R A N A



Bank Name S T A T E B A N K O F I N D
I A

Branch Name A J M E R


Branch Address A J M E R I N S T I T U T E O F T
E C H N O L O G Y



State R A J A S T H A N


Bank Tel. No. 0 1 4 5 - 2 3 0 0 6 2 2


Branch Code 0 5 1 4

MICR (9 digit) No. 5 1 8 0 0 2 0 0 7

(PLEASE ATTACH A PHOTOCOPY OF CHEQUE & PASS BOOK)

Account No. 3 0 2 0 0 1 5 2 4 6 8

REPEAT

Account No. 3 0 2 0 0 1 5 2 4 6 8


(xix) Column – 19. Fill up attached Demand Draft particulars.
Issue D D M M Y Y Y Y
Demand Draft No. 0 2 3 1 5 0 Date 1 4 1 2 2 0 0 9

Amount (Rs.) in figure 3 0

Amount (Rs.) in word T H I R T Y

Issuing Bank Name S T A T E B A N K O F I N D I A

Issuing Bank Branch A J M E R



Note: Application form from page number 13 to 22 along with required documents only to be forwarded.











CHECK LIST OF DOCUMENTS TO BE ATTACHED WITH
THE APPLICATION FORM

1. Candidates / ESM are to ensure that the following documents are attached (as applicable) along with the Application Form (non submission of these certificate will lead to rejection and application will be returned unactioned).


(a) Attested copy of Ex-Serviceman/Widow I-card issued by RSB/ZSB. This is an important document to be attached.


(b) Extract of ESM discharge book as per specimen.


(c) If child born after discharge then affidavit is to be submitted by ESM, that child is dependent on him and he / she is a ward of ESM.


(d) Additional Certificates – Attested copy of following documents.


(i) Category 1: Part II Order Equivalent of other
(ii) Category 2: Part II Order services i.e. Army /
(iii) Category 3: Part II Order Navy / Air Force
(iv) Category 4: Part II Order
(v) Category 5: Award Certificate


(e) Attested photocopy of matriculation or equivalent examination certificate for verification of date of birth.


(f) Attested photocopy of mark sheet of MEQ as applicable (e.g. 10 plus 2, graduation / diploma etc). In case the MEQ is graduation / diploma, then complete mark sheet is required to be submitted.


(g) In case of MBA/MCA applicants, attested copy of minimum entry qualification certificate. i.e Graduation


(h) Bonafide studentship certificate to be issued by Registrar/Dean/Principal of College/Institution pertaining to course for which scholarship is claimed (As per specimen attach).


(i) Demand Draft of Rs. 30/- (Rupees Thirty only) attached. (Application form without Demand Draft will not be processed and Demand Draft should not be made before 20th December 2009.)





(j) Photocopy of passbook showing name, account number with photograph of individual and cancelled leaflet cheque. (Scholarship will not be sent in absence of photocopy of passbook)








Date: _____________________


_______________________________
Place: ____________________ Full Name & Signature of Candidate






_______________________________________
Checked / counter singed by ESM / Widow




























Selection Serial Number
(To be allotted by KSB) ......................

APPLICATION FOR PRIME MINISTER’S SCHOLARSHIP FOR THE YEAR 200_ - ___.


Note: 1.) Please read column wise guide lines carefully before filing the application
2.) Application Form to be filled in Capital letters except email ID.
3.) Checklist must be attached on the top of application duly tick marked.
4.) One candidate to submit only one application form for one course.




1. NAME:-
First Name


Middle Name


Surname




Male Female
2. Put a tick mark (√)


3. Date of Birth (please attach proof of age) (i.e : Matriculation certificate)
DD MM Y Y Y Y


4. Your Rajya Sainik Board or Zila Sainik Board (Where ESM is registered and obtained Ex-servicemen Identity card)

RSB




ZSB




5. Full Address:
a) Present Correspondence Address: - (Where you want your letter to be sent in case of selection / rejection)
House No.


Street No. & Name





LEAVE BLANK SPACE BETWEEN WORDS
Tehsil


District


State



Pin Code

b) Permanent Address :-
House No.


Street No. & Name





Tehsil


District


State



Pin Code

6. Telephone Number.

STD Code

Land Line No.

Mobile No.


E-Mail (mandatory)


7. Ex-servicemen Category - (Mention category as per Para 6 of the brochure and attach supporting documents duly attested).




LEAVE BLANK SPACE BETWEEN WORDS

8. Ex-serviceman’s Particulars:-

a) Name of ex-serviceman



b) Service No.

c) Rank

d) Type of Service (Tick one) Army Air Force Navy


9. Details of MEQ / course for qualifying examination for scholarship (10+2/equivalent or minimum entry qualification)

a. Name of Course/MEQ


b. Year in which exam passed

c. Total Marks (in words)


(in figure)

d. Marks obtained (in words)



(in figure)

e. % of marks scored (in words)


(in figure)

10. Whether the applicant is in receipt of any other financial assistance/scholarship/ fellowship from any govt. / Private source for the course to which the scholarship applied for. If yes, then state the amount and source

Yes No


Amount


Source



11. Name of the Course
(as per specimen)


LEAVE BLANK SPACE BETWEEN WORDS

12. Duration of Course in Years in figure
and months
in words


13. Date of Commencement and Approximate Date of Completion.
D D M M Y Y Y Y
a) Course commenced on


D D M M Y Y Y Y


b) Course completion date
approximately

14. Details of College / Institute.

Name of Student


Roll No.

Name of College



Full Address
of college



State

Pin Code

Tel No. (with STD Code)

E-Mail ID (if any)


College Website


15. Regulatory bodies/ Council. (For example all engineering degrees and management degree courses are recognized by AICTE & UGC and all medical degree are recognized by Medical Council of India or Dental Council of India, specify as per case).



16. Furnish particulars of all children in order of age, as reflected in the discharge certificate or attached by the RSB/ZSB/Record Office.


LEAVE BLANK SPACE BETWEEN WORDS


Sl. No. Name of Child Gender Date of Birth







17. Details of brother/sister availing the PM’s Scholarship, if any. (Including yourself if granted earlier)

Sl. No. Selection Serial No. given by KSB Name of the brother/sister Course of Study Academic year in which applied Amount received so far



18. Details of Student’s Bank account for payment of Scholarship through Electronic Clearing Service.

Name of account holder



Bank Name



Branch Name



Branch Address



State


Bank Tel. No.


Branch Code

MICR (9 digit) No.

(PLEASE ATTACH A PHOTOCOPY OF CHEQUE & PASS BOOK)

Account No.

REPEAT

Account No.

LEAVE BLANK SPACE BETWEEN WORDS

19. Details of Demand Draft.
Issue D D M M Y Y Y Y
Demand Draft No. Date

Amount (Rs.) in figure

Amount (Rs.) in word

Issuing Bank Name

Issuing Bank Branch


20. Declaration: “Certified that the particulars given by me in the application are correct and any false statement made by us will disqualify me / my ward for award of PM’s Scholarship Scheme, besides recovery of scholarship already paid. I also undertake to abide by the conditions mentioned in the general instructions of the scheme.”




Place: (Signature of ward) ________________________

Date: (Full Name of Ward) _______________________


Place: (Signature of Parent) _______________________

Date: (Full Name of Parent) ______________________


CERTIFICATE FROM RSB / ZSB



“It is certified that PM Scholarship application form for academic year 20___ - ___ in respect of Mr. / Ms. __________________________________________________________
S/o / D/o Ex -____________________________________________________ has been checked, found correct as per check list provided by KSB and the applicant is eligible to apply as per rules of the scheme”.

Office seal: Director, RSB / ZSB


Place : ________________

Date : ________________

SPECIMEN COPY OF BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE



CERTIFICATE FOR PM SCHOLARSHIP


1. It is certified that Ms. / Mr ._____________________ is Bonafide student of __________________________________ college. His / Her roll number is __________ and he / she is studying in the I / II / III / IV / V year or ______ semester of the One / Two / Three / Four / five years _______________ course in ____________________ branch (if any). He / she has joined this college in the academic year 20___ - ___ and the course will be completed in the month of ____________ 20___ -___.

2. This is also certified that _____________ course is a professional degree course and this college is approved by ________________________________________________.

3. This is also certified that student is getting Rs.__________________ (If not getting write N/A) stipend from this Institute / College or any other sources. l

Office Seal: Signature of Principal / Dean / Registrar


Date:- ______________

Place:-_____________



SPECIMEN COPY OF EX-SERVICEMEN CERTIFICATE

EX-SERVICEMEN CERTIFICATE
(In lieu of Discharge Book)

1. Type of Service (Army, Navy or Air Force) : _______________________________________

2. Service No. : _______________________________________

3. Rank : _______________________________________

4. Name & Initials : _______________________________________

5. Trade : _______________________________________

6. Date of enrolment : _______________________________________

7. Date of Discharge : _______________________________________

8. Reason for Discharge : _______________________________________

9. Duration/Length of Service : _______________________________________

10. Regular : _______________________________________
Reserve

11. ESM died on (if applicable) : _______________________________________

12. Cause of death & : _______________________________________
Whether Attributable

13. Particulars of dependent children:-
Sl. No. Name Gender Date of Birth

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
It is certified that the above information is duly checked from the discharge book of Ex-servicemen and found to be correct.

Office Seal: Dir RSB/ZSB/OI/C Record Office



Date: ________________________

Place: ______________________


PRIME MINISTER’S SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME


ACKNOWLEDGEMENT SLIP

OFFICE COPY


Your Renewal form dated_________ has been received on__________. The application will be examined for eligibility. The dak receipt number ____________ is to be mentioned for further correspondence with this office.




Office Seal: (Signature of RSB)




Tear off Tear off



ACKNOWLEDGEMENT SLIP

STUDENT COPY


Your Renewal form dated_________ has been received on__________. The application will be examined for eligibility. The dak receipt number ____________ is to be mentioned for further correspondence with this office.




Office Seal: (Signature of RSB)



Note: This copy duly stamped and signed by RSB given to the student by hand or by post.



Selection Serial Number......................

PROFORMA FOR RENEWAL OF SCHOLARSHIP UNDER PRIME MINISTER’S SCHOLARSHIP SCHEME
(To be send only if selected for scholarship)
1. Name of the applicant (Ward/widow):




2. Selection serial No. given by KSB:


3. Particular of ESM:

Name of ESM

Rank
Service Number

4. Present address (where you want your letter is to be sent)
(To be filled up only in case of change from previous address or write N / A)
House No.

Street No. & Name

Tehsil & Post

Distt
RSB

Pin Code

5. Details of Bank account of SBI or PNB for Electronic Clearing Services ((PLEASE ATTACH A PHOTOCOPY OF PASS BOOK, CROSSED BLANK CHEQUE SHOWING YOUR ACCOUNT NUMBER TO BE FORWARDED, EVEN IT IS SUBMITTED EARLIER).

Name of account holder
and account number




Place: ________________________________

Date: Full Name & Signature of the ward / widow

It is certify that the information submitted by my child / Self is correct.



Place : _____________________________

Date : Full Name & Signature of the Parent

LEAVE BLANK SPACE BETWEEN WORDS


SPECIMEN COPY OF BONAFIDE CERTIFICATE FOR RENEWAL



CERTIFICATE FOR RENEWAL OF PM SCHOLARSHIP


1. It Is certified that Ms. / Mr ._____________________ is a Bonafide student of __________________________________ college. His / Her roll number is __________ and he / she is studying in the I / II / III / IV / V year or ______ semester of the two / three / four / five years _______________ course in ____________________ branch (if any). He / she had joined this college in the academic year 20___ - ___ and the course will be completed in the month of ____________ 20___ - ___.

2. This is also certified that Ms. / Mr. ___________________________
__________ has successfully completed his / her 1st / 2nd / 3rd / 4th / 5th year and scored ________ % / Grade__________ (Total marks obtained were _____________ out of ____________) and he / she is continuing the course in 2nd / 3rd / 4th / 5th year .
Office Seal:
Signature of Principal / Dean / Registrar

Date: ________________
Place: _______________


CHECKLIST FOR RENEWAL OF SCHOLARSHIP

DOCUMENTS TO BE ATTACHED:

(a) A Bonafide certificate from the College/Institute indicating that the candidate continues to study in the subject course and showing his / her percentage of marks for which the Prime Minister’s Scholarship has been sought (As per the specimen attach).

(b) Candidate to attach a self addressed envelope, duly stamped to receive the acknowledgement of renewal form by post.




________________________________
Full Name & Signature of the Candidate

DEPTT OF SAINIK WALFARE/RAJYA SAINIK BOARDS

Sl No Address of RSB For Detail, Pl contact RSB
1 ANDAMAN & NICOBAR
ISLANDS (UT) Col KV Cherian (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board
A & N Administration, Secretariat
Port Blair - 744 101 Port Blair-

03192-235621 (O)
03192-235621(F)
03192-320360 (R)
09434281518 (M)

secrsbandnic@gmail.com
2 ANDHRA PRADESH Brig CS Vidyasagar (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Block IV, II Floor, Gruhakalpa Complex, MJ Road, Nampally, Hyderabad - 500 001 Hyderabad

040-24736890 (O)
040-27990144 (R)
040-24747991 (F)
09440401470 (M)

apsainik@gmail.com
3 ARUNACHAL PRADESH Shri K Kholie
Director
Dte of Relief, Rehabilitation & Settlement, Govt of Arunachal Pradesh, New Itanagar-791110 Itanagar-

0360-2212282 (O)
0360-2290778 (R)
0360-2212282 (F)
0360-2213615 (F)
09436041927 (M)
4 ASSAM
Cmde K C Choudhury (Retd)
Director
Dte of Sainik Welfare, Sainik Bhavan, Lachit Nagar
Guwahati - 781 007
Guwahati-

0361-2522229 (O)
0361-2412196 (R)
0361-2522229 (F)


dkc2000@rediffmail.com
5 BIHAR
Shri Md. Saood, BAS
Director
Sainik Kalyan Nideshalaya
Home Deptt, Old Secretariat Barrack No.10, Patna – 800015
Patna

0612-2217301 (O)
0612-2217301 (F)
0612-2280333 (R)
6 CHANDIGARH (UT) Lt Col Raj Kumar Singh (Retd)
Zila Sainik Welfare Officer
Zila Sainik Welfare Office (UT)
Opposite Aroma Hotel, Sector-21-D, Chandigarh - 160 022 Chandigarh

0172-2701947 (O)
0172-2700317 (O)
0172-2726325 (F)
0172-2721064 (R)
09888880566 (M)


zswochd@gmail.com
7 CHHATTISGARH Col K L Yadav (Offg) (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare, CG
Near Collectorate Parisar, Behind Home Guard Office
Raipur - 492 001 Raipur

0771-2445165 (O)
0771-2427449 (O)
0771-2352529 (R)
0771-2420084 (F)
09893164219 (M)


dsw.cg@nic.in
8 DELHI Gp Capt RK Sharma (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board
Opp Tis Hazari Court
No.1, Rajpur Road, Delhi-110 054 Delhi-

011-23991876 (F)
011-23969260 (O)
09818953191 (M)

rsbdelhi@nic.in
9 GOA Maj Venugopal Nair (Retd)
Secretary
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Collectorate Building
Panaji - 403 001 Panaji

0832-2227138 (O)
0832-2443236 (R)
0832-2227138 (F)
09420686834 (M)

secyrsbgoa@gmail.com
10 GUJARAT Lt Col Kishor Sinh Gohil (Retd)
Director
Distt Sainik Welfare office & Resettlement, Bachat Bhawan, Ground Floor, Opp - Jyoti Sangh, Relief Road, Ahmedabad-380001 Gandhinagar

079-23251295 (O)
079-23251296 (O)
079-23251298 (O)
079-23251294 (F)
079-23245346 (R)
079-25508539 (O)

rsb_guj@rediffmail.com
11 HARYANA Brig KS Budhwar (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board
Sainik Bhawan, Sector 12, Shaheed Capt Rohit Kaushal Marg, Panchkula - 134 109 Panchkula

0172-2560462 (O)
0172-2562102 (R)
0172-2560462 (F)
0172-2560321 (O)
09888527189 (M)

sainikparivar@yahoo.com
12 HIMACHAL PRADESH Maj Jogi Dass Mankotia (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Govt of Himachal Pradesh
Hamirpur - 177 001 Hamirpur-

01972-221854 (O)
01972-224659 (O)
01972-225961 (R)
01972-225643 (F)
09418090708 (M)
13 JAMMU AND KASHMIR Brig RS Langeh, VSM (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Ambphalla, Jammu - 180005 Jammu

0191-2561547 (O)
0191-2465141 (R)
0191-2575362 (F)
09419180672 (M)
14 JHARKHAND Col AP Singh (Offg) (Retd)
Director
Sainik Kalyan Nideshalaya
Ranchi (Jharkhand) Ranchi-

0651-2330178 (O)
0651-2330469 (R)
0651-2331434 (F)
09431105964 (M)

jharkhand_skn@yahoo.in
15 KARNATAKA Col CM Uthaiah (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare & Resettlement,
Fd Mshl KM Cariappa, Bhavan, No 58, Fd Mshl KM Cariappa Road, Bangalore - 560 025 Bangalore-

080-25589459 (O)
080-28445706 (R)
080-25589459 (F)
09886205130 (M)

sainikblr@rediffmail.com
16 KERALA Shri KK Govindan Nair
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Vikas Bhavan, Thiruvananthapuram - 695 033 Thiruvananthapuram

0471-2304980 (O)
0471-2472401 (R)
0471-2304980 (F)
0471-2329279 (R)


govindan.nair@yahoo.com
17 MADHYA PRADESH Brig Pramod Kumar (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Southern Shopping Centre
Guru Teg Bahadur Complex, TT Nagar, New Market,
P.B.NO 364, Bhopal - 462 003 Bhopal-

0755-2553992 (O)
0755-2666081 (R)
0755-2577209 (F)
09993030601 (M)


dirrsb@mp.gov.in
18 MAHARASHTRA Col Suhas S Jatkar (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Maharashtra State ‘Raigad’, Opp National War Memorial, Solapur Road, Ghorpadi, Pune-411 001 Pune-

020-26332763 (O)
020-26332764 (O)
020-26850613 (F)
09422314276 (M)


dsw@mahasainik.com
19 MANIPUR
Lt Col H Sharat Singh (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board
Sainik Rest House
Opp. Lamphel Police Station, Imphal-795004
Imphal-

09862672547 (M)
20 MEGHALAYA Brig WJB Sturgeon, YSM, SM (Retd)
Director
Dte of Sainik Welfare
Public Service Commission Building Beyond DC Building
Shillong - 793 001 Shillong-

0364-2225613 (O)
0364-2536574 (R)
0364-2225613 (F)
09436101551 (M)


rsbmegha@rediff.com
21 MIZORAM Col John Zama, SM (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare & Res,
Tuikual ‘A’, PB No. 119
Aizawl - 796 001 Aizawl-

0389-2322732 (O)
0389-2322732 (F)
0389-2325811 (R)
09436142593 (M)

rsbmizoram@yahoo.in
22 NAGALAND Brig Brij Pal Singh (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board, Home Deptt, Home Br, Nagaland Civil Sectt., Kohima - 797 001 Kohima-

0370-2270029 (O)
0370-2270029 (F)
0370-2221991 (R)
09436830124 (M)


secyrsb-ngl@nic.in
23 ORISSA Col (Dr) DK Das (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board, Nageswar Tangi, Lewis Road, Bhubaneshwar-751002 Bhubaneshwar

0674-2432268 (O)
0674-2435998 (F)
0674-2721156 (R)
09937940807 (M)


rsbbbsr@gmail.com
24 PUDUCHERRY (UT) Col Jacob Mathen Anand (Retd)
Director
Deptt of Sainik Welfare
Jawan Bhavan Complex, Lawspet Main Road, Pakkamudayanpet, Puducherry - 605 008 Puducherry

0413-2253107 (O)
0413-2250575 (F)
09443228260 (M)


dswpuducherry@gmail.com
25 PUNJAB Brig IS Gakhal (Retd)
Director
Dte of Sainik Welfare, Punjab
Punjab Sainik Bhawan, Sector 21-D, Chandigarh - 160 022 Chandigarh

0172-2701845 (O)
0172-2740991 (R)
0172-2707345 (F)
09814297113 (M)


dswpb@rediffmail.com
26 RAJASTHAN Col Phool Singh Mehla (Retd)
(Offg) Nideshak
Sainik Kalyan Vibhag
Secretariat Building, North Block, Jaipur - 302 005 Jaipur-

0141-2227897 (O)
0141-2227650 (F)
0141-2356464 (R)
09314933120 (M)


rajasthansainik@yahoo.com
27 SIKKIM Lt Col PB Gurung (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board, Paljor Stadium Road, Gangtok-737 101 Gangtok-

03592-202534 (O)
03592-221456 (O)
03592-202156 (R)
03592-221456 (F)
09434448861 (M)
28 TAMIL NADU Capt S M Aslam, (Retd)
Joint Director
Dte of Ex-Servicemen’s Welfare
22, Raja Muthiah Salai, Choolai
Chennai - 600 003 Chennai-

044-26691747 (O)
044-26691342 (O)
044-22331052 (R)
044-26691886 (F)
09444823182 (M)

mdossc@gmail.com
29 TRIPURA Lt Col Mohit Ghosh (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board, Nehru Office Complex, Gorkhabasti, P.O. Kunjaban, Agartala - 799 006 West Tripura Agartala

0381-2326507 (O)
0381-2323795 (F)
0381-2319005 (R)
09436510584 (M)

rsb.tripura@gmail.com
30 UTTAR PRADESH Shri AK Chaturvedi, PCS
(Additional Charge)
Director
Dte of Sainik Kalyan Evam Punarvas, Kariappa Bhawan, Kaiserbagh, Lucknow - 226 001 Lucknow-

0522-2625354 (O)
0522-2625354 (F)
0522-2305107 (F)
0522-2391701 (R)
09415404142 (M)
31 UTTARAKHAND Brig AN Bahuguna, KC, YSM, VSM (Retd)
Director
Nideshalaya Sainik Kalyan Uttarakhan, Kalidas marg
P O- Haathi Badkala
Dehradun - 248121 Dehradun-

0135-2744208 (O)
0135-2743773 (F)
0135-2741481 (O)
0135-2670813 (R)
09358254621 (M)

dskddn@gmail.com
32 WEST BENGAL Col PR Pal (Retd)
Secretary
Rajya Sainik Board, Block 'F'
(First Floor), Writers’ Building
Kolkata - 700 001 Kolkata-

033-22141347 (O)
033-22144643 (F)
033-22143220 (O)
09874535628 (M)

rajyasainikboardwestbengal@gmail.com



Note:

Dadar Nagar Haveli: ESM of these states can submit their Prime Minister application form to
Gujrat RSB.
Daman & Div

Lakshadweep: ESM of this state can submit their Prime Minister application form to Kerala RSB.