Air Veterans’ family welfare-related information is shared here for the benefit of veterans, their dependents, and Next of Kin (NOK). The welfare support available to the families of deceased Air Force veterans has received a significant boost. In a major decision aimed at providing better assistance for dignified last rites of Air Veterans, the Air Force Association (AFA) and the Indian Air Force Benevolent Association (IAFBA) have revised the existing financial assistance structure.
As per a communication issued by the Air Force Association Headquarters, New Delhi, the Garima Grant provided by IAFBA has been increased from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000, while the separate AFA Ex-Gratia payment of ₹7,500 has been discontinued with effect from 01 June 2026. DAV provides more informationoe welfare issues of the Air Veterans.
This change effectively increases the financial support available to the Next of Kin (NOK) of deceased Air Veterans and simplifies the grant mechanism.
Key Highlights of the New Policy
Enhanced Garima Grant
The Managing Council of IAFBA, in a meeting chaired by the Chief of the Air Staff, approved enhancement of the Garima Grant from:
Earlier Amount Revised Amount
₹15,000 ₹25,000
The revised grant came into force from 01 June 2026.
AFA Ex-Gratia Payment Discontinued
Previously, AFA members’ Next of Kin were entitled to:
- AFA Ex-Gratia Grant: ₹7,500
- IAFBA Garima Grant: ₹15,000
Under the revised arrangement:
- AFA Ex-Gratia Grant: Discontinued
- IAFBA Garima Grant: Enhanced to ₹25,000
As a result, the overall assistance available for dignified last rites has increased by ₹2,500.
What Was the Earlier System?
Before the revision:
For AFA Members
Upon the demise of an Air Veteran who was a member of the Air Force Association:
- AFA paid an Ex-Gratia amount of ₹7,500.
- IAFBA paid a Garima Grant of ₹15,000.
Total Support: ₹22,500
For Non-AFA Members
- Only the IAFBA Garima Grant of ₹15,000 was available.
What Is the New System?
From deaths occurring on or after 01 June 2026:
- No AFA Ex-Gratia payment will be released.
- IAFBA Garima Grant will be paid at the enhanced rate of ₹25,000.
Total Financial Support
Period Total Support
Before 01 June 2026 ₹22,500
On or After 01 June 2026 ₹25,000
This represents an increase of 11.11% in the total assistance available to the family of an Air Veteran who was an AFA member.
Pending Claims Before 01 June 2026
The Air Force Association has clarified that:
- Ex-Gratia claims relating to Air Veterans who passed away before 01 June 2026 can still be submitted.
- Such pending claims may be forwarded to AFA Headquarters for settlement after completion of necessary formalities.
However, no new Ex-Gratia claims will be accepted for deaths occurring on or after 01 June 2026.
Important Clarification Regarding URC Grants
The Air Force Association has also highlighted an issue frequently faced by families of Air Veterans.
In the case of many Army veterans, a grant for funeral assistance is often provided through the Unit Run Canteen (URC). Consequently, some families of Air Veterans had approached Army-operated URCs seeking similar assistance.
The AFA has clarified that:
- Air Veterans are covered under the IAFBA Garima Grant system.
- The grant is not payable through URCs.
- Families should therefore approach the appropriate Air Force welfare channels rather than expecting assistance from local Army URCs.
Why the Decision Matters
The enhancement of the Garima Grant reflects the continuing commitment of Air Force welfare organizations towards veterans and their families. Funeral expenses and associated costs have increased substantially over the years, making higher financial assistance necessary.
The revised structure offers:
- Higher financial support for bereaved families.
- Simplified claim process through a single grant mechanism.
- Greater dignity in conducting last rites of Air Veterans.
- Improved welfare coverage under IAFBA.
What Air Veterans and Families Should Do
Air Veterans and their families should:
- Ensure that service and pension records are updated.
- Keep NOK details correctly recorded.
- Inform family members about the revised Garima Grant provisions.
- Contact the nearest Air Force Association branch or IAFBA authorities in the event of a claim.
- Preserve essential documents such as death certificate, PPO, discharge book, and identity cards for smooth processing.
Conclusion
The enhancement of the IAFBA Garima Grant from ₹15,000 to ₹25,000 marks a welcome welfare measure for the Air Veteran community. Although the Air Force Association’s ₹7,500 Ex-Gratia payment has been discontinued, the overall financial support available to families has increased. The move is expected to provide better assistance to the Next of Kin during difficult times while ensuring dignified last rites for Air Veterans across the country.