Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi announced an increase in the pensions provided to freedom fighters in the State on Thursday.
This announcement was made during the Freedom Fighters Festival program, held to commemorate the Shraddha Utsav of Utkal Keshari Dr. Harekrushna Mahatab.
According to the announcement, the monthly pension for jailed freedom fighters has been raised from ₹10,000 to ₹20,000. Non-jailed freedom fighters will now receive ₹15,000 per month, up from ₹9,000.
Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister remarked, “Freedom fighters are our priceless gems. We can never fully repay the sacrifices they made; we can only honour them and keep their memories alive.”
The State government has also increased the additional commemorative allowance for freedom fighters receiving the Central Government’s Freedom Soldier Award from ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 per month. Moreover, those who were arrested under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA) during the 21-month Emergency period will now be eligible for a monthly pension of ₹20,000.
Describing the Emergency as the “darkest period” in Independent India, Chief Minister Majhi noted that many individuals were arrested while fighting for the re-establishment of democracy. “This was also referred to as the second struggle for independence, and the increased pension is a step to honour their efforts,” he said.
To honour Dr. Mahatab’s contributions and preserve his memory, the State is celebrating his 125th birth anniversary both locally and nationally. Additionally, a biopic about his life will be produced, as announced by the Chief Minister.
Relatives of freedom fighters from ten states attended the festival, where they were honoured by the Chief Minister. During the event, Majhi inaugurated a photo exhibition organized by the Information and Public Relations Department at the Freedom Fighters’ Sadan premises.
He also announced the upcoming Shahid Madho Singh Handicrafts Scheme to honor the sacrifices of the great freedom fighter Shahid Madho Singh from Bargarh district.
