Relief During Natural Calamities Such as Cyclone, Flood or Fire (Sainik Welfare) gives financial help of up to ₹40,000 to registered ex-servicemen, widows and their dependents in Puducherry who have lost property in natural disasters such as cyclones, floods or fires.
Department of Sainik Welfare, Puducherry manages this support through the Armed Forces Flag Day Fund. The scheme is still open in 2026 for eligible ex-servicemen and their families who need money to rebuild after a natural calamity. Support is still being given for the 2026-27 period.
Relief During Natural Calamities (Sainik Welfare) - Main Details
This scheme works as a safety net for people who served the country and now face unexpected losses from nature. A registered ex-serviceman, a widow of an ex-serviceman, or a recognized dependent can claim this relief after a cyclone, flood or fire damages their home or belongings.
The amount is fixed by the Management Committee after looking at the actual cost of damage, and the final figure cannot go above ₹40,000. Once approved, the money is sent directly to the bank account of the eligible person through RTGS or NEFT, so there is no need to visit the office again for payment.
Because this is a direct cash benefit, it helps families cover repair costs, replace lost items and get back to normal life quickly after a disaster. The scheme is run at the state level and is looked after by the Rajya Sainik Board in Puducherry.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Relief During Natural Calamities Such as Cyclone, Flood or Fire (Sainik Welfare) |
| Level | State |
| Eligible Beneficiaries | Ex-servicemen, widows and dependents |
| State | Puducherry |
| Nodal Department | Sainik Welfare Department, Puducherry |
| Support Amount | Up to ₹40,000 |
| Implementing Agency | Rajya Sainik Board, Puducherry |
| Benefit Type | Direct cash benefit |
Eligibility
To qualify for this relief, the applicant should meet the conditions given below.
- Status: The applicant should be an ex-serviceman, the widow of an ex-serviceman, or a recognized dependent.
- Registration: The applicant should be officially registered with the Department of Sainik Welfare, Puducherry.
- Event: The applicant should have suffered actual losses due to a natural calamity such as a cyclone, flood or fire.
Exclusions
If the applicant or the spouse is currently re-employed in a regular government post, working for a public sector undertaking, employed in a private organization, or is self-employed and files income tax returns, then that person will not be eligible for this specific cash relief.
Application Process
The application is done offline at the Rajya Sainik Board office. Follow the steps below to apply.
STEP 1 - Visit the Rajya Sainik Board at Jawan Bhawan, Department of Sainik Welfare, 261, Lawspet Main Road, Puducherry - 605013 during working hours and ask for the official application form.
STEP 2 - Fill every section of the form carefully, attach a recent passport-sized photograph signed across the front, and include all the required self-attested documents.
STEP 3 - Submit the filled application along with the supporting papers to the authorized officer at the Rajya Sainik Board office.
STEP 4 - Collect the receipt from the official, as it confirms that the application has been processed.
Grievances and Support
For any doubt, contact the office at 261, Lawspet Main Road, Puducherry - 605013, call 0413-2253107, or send an email to dirdsw.pon@nic.in between 2:30 pm and 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.
Documents
Keep these papers ready before applying so that the process goes smoothly.
- Valid identity card of the ex-serviceman or widow.
- Official discharge certificate of the ex-serviceman.
- Proof of damages sustained during the natural calamity.
- A signed declaration form from the applicant.
References
Scheme Guidelines | Government Order | Official Contact Page
FAQ's
Which department administers this scheme?
The Department of Sainik Welfare, Union Territory of Puducherry, administers this scheme.
Where can I access the official website?
You can visit the official website at https://sainik.py.gov.in/.
How do I contact the Public Information Officer?
You may reach the Public Information Officer, Shri. Sandirakumaran.S (Director), at 261, Pakkamudiyanpet, Lawspet, Puducherry - 605008, by calling 0413-2250575 or emailing dirdsw.pon@nic.in.
Who is the Appellate Authority for this department?
The Appellate Authority is Shri. S.D. Sundaresan, I.A.S., Secretary to the Government (Sainik Welfare), Chief Secretariat, Puducherry - 605001. You can reach them at 0413-2349712 or via email at jshome.pon@nic.in.
Are Short Service Commissioned Officers considered ex-servicemen?
Yes, provided they were released after completing their specific engagement period and received a gratuity upon release.
Is there compensation available for delays in benefit payment?
No, the current scheme rules do not include any provision for compensation regarding delays in payments.
How do I file an RTI?
You should submit an application along with an IPO or Demand Draft for ₹10 in favor of the Director, Department of Sainik Welfare, Puducherry. Detailed instructions are available at https://sainik.py.gov.in/right-to-information.