For Ex-Servicemen (ESM), the Dependent Identity Card is an important document for eligible family members. The card helps establish the dependent’s relationship with the Ex-Serviceman and may be required for availing benefits or concessions available to eligible dependents.
The Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) has laid down guidelines for issuing Identity Cards to dependents of Ex-Servicemen. The card is linked to the ESM’s Identity Card and is issued through the concerned Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) after verification of eligibility and supporting documents.
What is an ESM Dependent Identity Card?
An ESM Dependent Identity Card is an identity document issued to eligible dependents of an Ex-Serviceman.
The card establishes the dependent’s connection with the ESM and can be useful when claiming facilities or concessions for which proof of dependent status is required.
The KSB guidelines specifically provide for separate applications for individual dependents and require the dependent card to be linked with the ESM’s own Identity Card
Who Can Get an ESM Dependent Identity Card?
As per the available KSB guidelines, the following categories are covered:
- Spouse and dependent children of Ex-Servicemen
- War widows and their dependent children, including eligible step-children and legally adopted children
- Widows of Ex-Servicemen and their dependent children
- Eligible dependent parents of Ex-Servicemen, subject to the prescribed income condition
The concerned Zila Sainik Board is responsible for verifying and authenticating the dependent’s details, particularly with reference to the ESM’s service/discharge records.
Important: Name in the Discharge Book
One of the most important requirements is that the dependent should be reflected in the relevant service/discharge records of the Ex-Serviceman.
Therefore, veterans should check their Discharge Book/Service Documents before applying.
If there is a discrepancy in the dependent’s details, it may have to be corrected through the appropriate service or welfare authority before the dependent Identity Card can be issued.
Documents Required for ESM Dependent I-Card
Applicants should keep the following documents ready:
- Application form for Dependent Identity Card
- Registration form, wherever required
- Copy of the ESM’s Discharge Book/Service Document
- Copy of PPO (Pension Payment Order)
- Copy of the dependent’s Birth Certificate
- Copy of the dependent’s Aadhaar Card
- No Objection Certificate (NOC) from the previous ZSB, where applicable
- Recent photograph of the dependent
- Other documents required to establish dependency or current status, wherever applicable
The KSB-related guidelines specifically mention the application, registration form, Discharge Book, PPO, applicable NOC, Birth Certificate and Aadhaar among the documents for issue of the dependent card.
How to Apply for ESM Dependent Identity Card
Step 1: Check ESM Records
Before starting the application, check whether the dependent’s details are correctly recorded in the ESM’s Discharge Book/service documents.
Step 2: Keep Documents Ready
Scan or photocopy the required documents and keep the dependent’s photograph and identification documents ready.
Step 3: Apply Through the Appropriate ESM/ZSB Channel
The application is processed through the concerned Zila Sainik Board (ZSB). Depending on the facility available in the concerned state/district, the application may be submitted through the prescribed online system or through the ZSB.
Veterans should use the current application facility available through the Kendriya Sainik Board rather than relying on old third-party application links.
KSB’s official website provides information and application facilities relating to ESM Identity Cards.
Step 4: Verification by ZSB
The concerned ZSB verifies the ESM’s status and the dependent’s eligibility and documents.
Step 5: Issue of Dependent Identity Card
After successful verification and approval, the Dependent Identity Card is issued by the competent authority.
A separate application is required for each dependent.
ESM Dependent I-Card Fee
The KSB guidelines cited in judicial records prescribe a fee of ₹100 per card for issue of the Dependent Identity Card. The same amount is also prescribed when a renewed card is treated as a fresh issue.
However, applicants should confirm the applicable fee and payment procedure with their concerned ZSB before making payment, particularly where the application is being made under an updated online system.
Validity of ESM Dependent Identity Card
The validity of the card depends upon the category of dependent.
According to the KSB guidelines referred to in the 2023 judicial proceedings:
| Dependent Category | Broad Validity Provision |
| Spouse of ESM | Permanent nature, subject to change in status |
| Widow of ESM | Permanent nature, subject to remarriage |
| Son | Generally up to 25 years or cessation of dependency, subject to applicable provisions |
| Daughter | Generally up to marriage or cessation of dependency, subject to applicable provisions |
| Permanently disabled child | Lifetime validity, subject to applicable conditions |
The exact validity and renewal requirements should always be checked with the concerned ZSB because subsequent policy amendments may affect the applicable provisions.
Dependent Parents
Dependent parents are covered subject to the prescribed dependency and income conditions.
The KSB guidelines cited in the court record specify an income ceiling linked to ₹9,000 per month plus applicable Dearness Relief on basic pension of ₹9,000 for dependent parents.
Since income limits and welfare policies can be amended, applicants should verify the currently applicable condition with their ZSB/KSB before submitting an application.
Why Should Veterans Obtain a Dependent I-Card?
An ESM Dependent Identity Card provides an official means of establishing the dependent’s identity and relationship with the veteran.
It can be particularly useful when a dependent is required to establish eligibility for a facility, concession or welfare benefit where a recognised ESM dependent Identity Card is prescribed.
KSB’s policy itself notes that the absence of dependent Identity Cards had created difficulties for eligible family members in accessing certain facilities, including concessions offered by airlines to eligible dependents.
Important Points for Veterans
Before submitting the application, veterans should remember:
- Submit a separate application for each dependent.
- Ensure the dependent’s name and details are correctly reflected in the service/discharge records.
- Keep the ESM’s PPO and Discharge Book ready.
- Keep the dependent’s Aadhaar and date-of-birth proof ready.
- Make sure photographs meet the prescribed specifications.
- If the veteran has shifted from one district to another, an NOC from the previous ZSB may be required.
- The dependent card is linked with the ESM’s Identity Card.
- The ZSB will verify the documents before issuing the card.
- Do not rely on old application links or outdated instructions; check the current KSB/ZSB procedure before applying.
Online Application for ESM Dependent Identity Card
Veterans looking for an online application for ESM Dependent Identity Card should first visit the official Kendriya Sainik Board website and check the current Identity Card/application facility.
Kendriya Sainik Board (KSB) Official Website
Because online portals and application procedures can change, veterans should avoid submitting personal information through unofficial websites, social-media links or unknown third-party portals.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can an ESM apply for a Dependent Identity Card for each family member?
Yes. The KSB guidelines provide for a separate application for each dependent.
Is the Dependent I-Card linked to the ESM Identity Card?
Yes. The guidelines provide that the dependent card should be linked with the ESM’s Identity Card to ensure that cards are issued only to eligible dependents.
Is the Discharge Book required?
Yes. The Discharge Book/service record is an important document for verification of the ESM and dependent details.
Is Aadhaar required?
Aadhaar of the dependent is among the documents specified in the KSB-related guidelines for issue of the card
What is the fee for the Dependent I-Card?
The KSB guideline cited in the judicial record specifies ₹100 per card for initial issue, with renewal treated as a fresh issue for fee purposes.
Where should I contact if my application is not processed?
The first point of contact should normally be the Zila Sainik Board (ZSB) where the ESM is registered. The ZSB is responsible for verification of the ESM/dependent details and processing of the Identity Card.
Final Takeaway
The ESM Dependent Identity Card is an important document for eligible family members of Ex-Servicemen. Veterans should ensure that their service records are updated, keep all supporting documents ready and submit a separate application for every eligible dependent.
For the latest procedure, veterans should verify the application process with their Zila Sainik Board and refer to the Kendriya Sainik Board’s official website before submitting personal documents online.
Disclaimer: This article is intended for general information and awareness of Ex-Servicemen and their families. Identity Card rules, eligibility, fees, validity and online procedures may be amended by the competent authorities. Applicants should verify the latest instructions with KSB/ZSB before taking any action.