7th pay commission: Provision of ration in kind for military officers restored

7th Pay Commission: Centre has restored the provision of 'ration in kind' to military officers deployed in peace areas of the country, revealed a defence official on Tuesday. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh approved the proposal, keeping in mind the welfare of defence officers of the country, as per the ministry's statement. The government removed the facility in 2017 after implementing 7th Pay Commission and replaced it with allowances. While the provision for the officers, however, continued in the field areas and jawans and Junior Commissioned Officers (JCOs) have been enjoying the facility. 

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh himself stepped into the matter and cleared the proposal as welfare of the armed forces have been among top priorities of Singh and he has very clearly conveyed it to the senior officials of the Defence Ministry, sources added. "The government has approved the proposal of the Ministry of Defence for restoration of the 'ration in kind' to the defence officers posted in peace areas," a defence official said.

Earlier, the defence officers placed in peace areas were paid Rs 96 as 'ration money allowance' instead of the ration and the money was directly credited to their bank account. The demand to increase the ration money allowance was also raised, but was not met by the authorities. While the government's decision to withdraw the provision of 'ration in kind' had met with criticism for a long time within the three services of the armed forces.

Last month, a letter issued by Quarter General Branch of the Army stated that serving and retired officers of the Indian defence forces will not be able to buy cars above Rs 12 lakh from the subsidised CSD (Canteen Stores Department) from June 1, as per new rules. Only vehicles with engine capacity up to 2,500 CC and costing up to Rs 12 lakh (excluding GST) will be available through CSD, the order stated.