Major Updates for Veterans, Serving Personnel & Defence Community
Jai Hind and welcome to Sainik News Bulletin.
Today we bring you several important updates related to defence pensioners, veterans, gallantry award winners, military families, and national security developments.
Today’s Headlines
✅ PCDA issues a major warning against pension fraud and fake phone calls.
✅ Lifelong free railway travel approved for nearly 4,000 gallantry award winners and one companion.
✅ Scholarship of up to ₹1 lakh announced for children of AMC and Army Dental Corps personnel.
✅ Major breakthrough in the ITBP soldier’s fight for justice against medical negligence.
✅ Serious unrest and protests continue in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.
Let’s begin with our top story.
1. PCDA Issues Urgent Alert Against Pension Fraud
The Principal Controller of Defence Accounts (Pensions), Prayagraj, has issued an important advisory for all defence pensioners and SPARSH beneficiaries.
According to PCDA, several veterans have reported receiving fraudulent calls from individuals posing as pension officials.
The authority has clarified that official calls from PCDA will only originate from the following number:
0532-2800154
If you receive a pension-related call from any other number, do not share:
Aadhaar details
Bank account information
Pension details
OTPs or passwords
For verification, veterans may contact the official toll-free helpdesk: 1800-180-5325
PCDA has also clarified that it does not operate any WhatsApp groups and all official communication is conducted through the SPARSH platform. Veterans are advised to remain vigilant and immediately report suspicious activity.
2. Lifelong Free Railway Pass for Gallantry Award Winners
Now some excellent news for our gallantry award winners. The Ministry of Defence has initiated the process of providing lifelong free railway travel facilities to recipients of:
Sena Medal (Gallantry)
Nao Sena Medal (Gallantry)
Vayu Sena Medal (Gallantry)
A total of 3,924 serving and retired JCOs and Other Ranks have been identified under the scheme.
Key Benefits
Free railway travel for life.
One companion allowed to travel free.
Applicable to both serving and retired awardees.
Documents Required
Eligible personnel should keep the following documents ready:
PPO copy
Aadhaar Card
Passport-size photographs
Declaration form
Gazette notification of award
Service certificate (for serving personnel)
The Railway Ministry has already initiated printing of special identity cards.
The Government has also begun collecting data for Chakra Series gallantry award winners for extending similar benefits.
3. ₹1 Lakh Scholarship for Children of AMC and AD Corps Personnel
A valuable educational welfare scheme has been announced for military families. Southern Command has introduced a scholarship programme for children of serving and retired personnel belonging to:
Army Medical Corps (AMC)
Army Dental Corps (AD Corps)
Eligibility
Students who have secured:
90% or more marks in Class 12 examinations
may become eligible for scholarships up to:
₹1,00,000
Application Process
Obtain application forms from the District Sainik Board.
Complete all required formalities.
Submit applications through the prescribed channel.
Last Date
31 August 2026
Eligible families are encouraged to apply within the stipulated timeframe.
4. ITBP Soldier’s Fight for Justice Sees Major Breakthrough
In a significant development, an ITBP jawan’s long struggle for justice has finally moved forward. The case relates to alleged medical negligence that resulted in the amputation of his mother’s hand. Initially, local authorities and police reportedly failed to take effective action. Subsequently, senior ITBP officers and personnel raised the matter forcefully before the administration. A fresh investigation was ordered.
The inquiry reportedly found:
- Five doctors responsible.
- Four hospital managers accountable.
An extensive charge sheet running into hundreds of pages has now been filed.
The case is being viewed as an important example of accountability and justice for military families.
5. Situation Remains Tense in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir
Reports indicate continuing unrest in Pakistan Occupied Kashmir.
Large-scale protests have been taking place over issues such as:
Inflation
Food shortages
Electricity tariffs
Water supply
Basic public services
According to reports, thousands of people have participated in demonstrations demanding relief and improved living conditions. The situation remains sensitive and continues to attract international attention. Authorities are closely monitoring developments in the region.
Closing Message
These were today’s major updates from the world of defence personnel, veterans, pensions, welfare schemes and national security.
If you are a veteran, serving soldier, military family member or defence enthusiast, stay connected for verified updates that matter to the Armed Forces community. Visit us at www.esminfoclub.com
Please share this bulletin with fellow veterans and defence pensioners so that important information reaches those who need it most.
Thank you for Reading.
Jai Hind! Jai Bharat!