Honouring our guardians by supporting their families with generosity.
On Sunday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh led the nation in paying tribute to the country's guardians, marking the solemn occasion of Armed Forces Flag Day. Highlighting the courage and commitment of the military personnel, Singh called upon all citizens to come forward and contribute generously to the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund (AFFDF).
In a heartfelt message shared on social media platform X, the Defence Minister emphasized that the safety and security enjoyed by the nation are due to the tireless vigilance of our soldiers. He noted that their selfless service creates a debt that the country can perhaps never fully repay. By contributing to the fund, citizens can tangibly honour this dedication and strengthen the support system for those who protect India's borders. To mark the occasion, Singh shared a photograph of himself proudly wearing the symbolic Flag Day pin.
A Legacy of Support Since 1949
Armed Forces Flag Day holds a significant place in India's history, having been observed annually on December 7 since 1949.
The day is dedicated not only to honouring active personnel but also to remembering the brave souls who made the ultimate sacrifice.
The primary objective of this observance is to mobilize public support for the welfare of:
The Ministry of Defence has reiterated that soldiers are the nation's greatest asset, often sacrificing personal comforts and family life to ensure the safety of fellow citizens.
Railways Joins in Homage
The Ministry of Railways also joined the chorus of tributes. In an official statement, Indian Railways expressed its gratitude for the unwavering duty performed by the Army, Navy, and Air Force, acknowledging their role in safeguarding the nation’s sovereignty.
Increased Financial Assistance for Families
In a move to further support the veteran community, significant updates to financial aid were recently announced. The Department of Ex-servicemen Welfare confirmed that grant rates under the AFFDF have been revised upward.
Under the new structure, the Penury Grant has doubled from Rs 4,000 to Rs 8,000. Furthermore, the Marriage Grant has seen a substantial hike from Rs 50,000 to Rs 1,00,000, while the Education Grant has been raised to Rs 2,000. These revised rates are applicable for applications submitted from November 2025 onwards, ensuring better financial security for ex-servicemen and their dependents.
