Funeral Grant (Sainik Welfare)

Funeral Grant (Sainik Welfare) is a financial support program run by the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund of the Department of Sainik Welfare, Puducherry. It helps families of deceased ex-servicemen (ESM) or their widows meet the cost of funeral arrangements. As per the latest update on the official website, the grant now stands at ₹25,000 for the death of an ESM and ₹20,000 for the death of an ESM's widow.

The scheme is open to the families of ex-servicemen who are registered with the Department of Sainik Welfare in Puducherry. It is a one-time cash grant paid directly into the beneficiary's bank account, and it continues to be available in the current year.

Funeral Grant (Sainik Welfare) - Introduction

Funeral Grant (Sainik Welfare) serves as a supportive scheme by the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund under the Department of Sainik Welfare, Puducherry. It helps families during difficult times by providing money for funeral expenses after the passing of an ex-serviceman or their widow. The benefit amounts were revised recently, and as of August 2026 the grant for the death of an ESM is ₹25,000 while the grant for the death of an ESM's widow is ₹20,000.

The grant is paid promptly after the occurrence, provided the family has the burial or cremation permission from the relevant authority. A formal death certificate is not required for this initial support. The money is transferred directly into the beneficiary's bank account through RTGS or NEFT.

Benefits

This scheme offers financial support to eligible families to ease the burden of funeral expenses. The grant amounts were revised on the official website and are now higher than before.

The grant is provided promptly following the occurrence, provided you have the burial or cremation permission from the relevant authority. A formal death certificate is not mandatory for this initial support. The funds are transferred directly into the beneficiary's bank account via RTGS or NEFT.

Eligibility

To be eligible for this grant, you must meet the following criteria:

1. The deceased ex-serviceman (ESM) or their widow must have been registered with the Department of Sainik Welfare, Puducherry.
2. In the event of the ESM's death, the applicant should be the widow.
3. In the event of the widow's death, any member of the ESM's family may apply.
4. As per the official note, the scope of this grant does not apply to ESM, their living spouses, or widows who are re-employed as regular or deemed to be regular staff in Government, Public Sector, or private organizations, or who are self-employed income tax assesses.

Application Process

The application for this grant is made offline through the Department of Sainik Welfare. Follow these steps to apply:

STEP 1 - Visit the official Department of Sainik Welfare website to download the prescribed application format, or visit the Rajya Sainik Board office at Jawan Bhawan, 261, Lawspet Main Road, Puducherry, to obtain a hard copy.

STEP 2 - Complete the application form with all required details and attach a passport-sized photograph.

STEP 3 - Prepare all mandatory documents and make sure they are self-attested where required.

STEP 4 - Submit your signed application and supporting documents to the concerned authority at the Rajya Sainik Board.

STEP 5 - The office will provide you with an acknowledgment receipt upon submission.

For any grievances or questions, you may contact the office at 0413-2253107 or email dirdsw.pon@nic.in during working hours (Monday to Friday, 2:30 pm to 5:00 pm).

Documents

Please make sure you have the following documents ready for your application:

• Copy of the ESM Identity Card.
• Certificate permitting the body's removal issued by a competent authority (or a death certificate).
• A consent letter from the next-of-kin (NOK) if the application is for the death of a widow or an ESM whose spouse predeceased them.
• A copy of the Discharge Certificate (the address on this document must be within the Puducherry Union Territory).

References

View Official Guidelines | Government Order | Download Application Form | Application for Grant on Demise

FAQ's

Which department administers this scheme?

The Department of Sainik Welfare, Union Territory of Puducherry, manages and administers this scheme.

What is the current funeral grant amount?

As per the latest update, the grant is ₹25,000 for the death of an ex-serviceman and ₹20,000 for the death of an ESM's widow.

Is self-attestation needed for the application documents?

Yes, you must self-attest all copies of the mandatory documents before submission.

Are Short Service or Emergency Commissioned Officers eligible?

Yes, you are eligible if you were released upon completing your specific engagement period and received a gratuity at the time of your release.

Is there an income criteria for this scheme?

No, there is no income-based eligibility requirement for this scheme, although the grant does not apply to re-employed or self-employed income tax assesses.

How can I apply for information via RTI?

You may submit an application along with an IPO or DD for ₹10 in favor of the Director, Department of Sainik Welfare, Puducherry. Visit the official website for complete details.