Gaps In Ex-Servicemen Welfare Flagged During Hyderabad Review
Officials said around 40,000 ex-servicemen and their families were registered on the ‘Mana Sainikulu’ platform.
Hyderabad: Coordination gaps with the government that were affecting access to welfare schemes for ex-servicemen were raised during a visit by special chief secretary, home, C.V. Anand to the sainik welfare department head office in Panjagutta. Saink welfare director Brig A.R. Rao and his team briefed Anand on the department’s work, challenges and future plans.
Anand inspected the premises and the office and advised officials to improve cleanliness.
Officials said around 40,000 ex-servicemen and their families were registered on the ‘Mana Sainikulu’ platform. While financial support through cash grants and allowances was provided by both the state and Central governments, several welfare schemes in housing, education and employment are not fully implemented.
Lack of liaison with the state government was identified as a reason for these gaps. The department depends largely on the Flag Day Fund and the annual State Budget for welfare activities.
Officials said a proposal was pending with the government to set up the Telangana Ex-Servicemen Corporation (TESCO), similar to models in other states. This is expected to create large-scale employment opportunities for ex-servicemen in roles such as security services and escorts.
