After Mid Day reportage, Maharashtra government sanctions an increase in financial aide from Rs 1,275 to Rs 3,000 for veterans of World War II

Following MiD DAY's sustained reportage of the pathetic state of World War II veterans and their widows (MiD DAY broke the story with 'Republic Of Neglect' on January 26) across Maharashtra, the state government finally gave in. It made an announcement on Friday in the assembly to increase the financial aide for veterans from Rs 1,275 to Rs 3,000, with immediate affect.


The Mid Day story dated January 26, 2011

Sainik Welfare Minister for State Bhaskar Jadhav speaking to Sunday MiD DAY confirmed the move and said, "Those who took part in World War II, between 1939 to 1945, and were not serving the armed forces thereafter will be benefited. The state government earlier provided them Rs 10 a day to survive since October 1, 1989. It raised the sum from a monthly Rs 300 to Rs 600 on January 1, 1999 and then to Rs 1,275 on August 1, 2004 which has been continued till date."