Term Insurance AWARD WINNING

Investment Plans

NRI Plans

All Plans

Customer Service

Calculators

Fund Performance

Need assistance in choosing the right insurance plan?

Need assistance in choosing the right insurance plan?Get a call from our Expert.

Are you an NRI?

Yes

Name

Mobile number

+91

Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY)

dd MMM yyyy1786096518923 - 9

The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY) is a Central Government scheme introduced to honour the sacrifices made by India's freedom fighters. Through this initiative, eligible freedom fighters and certain dependants receive financial assistance in the form of a monthly pension. This article explains the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana, its key features, pension amounts, eligibility, application process, and the additional benefits available under the scheme.

What is the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana?

The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana is a pension scheme introduced by the Government of India on 15 August 1972 to recognise individuals who actively participated in the country's freedom struggle. Under the scheme, eligible freedom fighters receive a monthly pension along with Dearness Relief (DR). After the death of a pensioner, specified dependants may also receive pension benefits, subject to the scheme's eligibility conditions. The pension provided under the scheme is exempt* from income tax.

Highlights of the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana

Introduced by the Government of India on 15 August 1972 to honour the contribution of freedom fighters.
Provides a monthly pension along with applicable Dearness Relief (DR) to eligible beneficiaries.
Covers eligible freedom fighters as well as certain dependants, subject to the scheme's conditions.
Recognises individuals who were imprisoned, injured, lived underground, lost employment, or suffered property confiscation during the freedom struggle.
Pension received under the scheme is exempt* from income tax.
Offers several Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana benefits, including healthcare facilities, travel concessions, residential accommodation, and other welfare support.
Pension amounts are revised periodically by the Government to reflect changes in Dearness Relief and cost of living.

Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Amount

The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana amount is revised periodically by the Government to account for inflation and changes in Dearness Relief. The following table covers the current pension structure based on the applicable categories.

Category	Basic Pension	Total Monthly Pension (Including 48% Dearness Relief)
Ex-Political Prisoners/Spouses from Andaman	₹30,000	₹44,400
Freedom Fighters outside British India/Spouses	₹28,000	₹41,440
Other Freedom Fighters/Spouses (including INA)	₹26,000	₹38,480
Dependent Parents/Eligible Unmarried Daughters	50% of applicable basic pension	Approximately ₹19,240–₹22,200

Note: The freedom fighter pension amount 2026 may differ if the Government revises Dearness Relief or pension rates in future notifications. Pension paid under the scheme is currently exempt from tax.

Eligibility criteria for Samman Pension

The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY) is available to freedom fighters and eligible dependants who satisfy the conditions prescribed by the Government of India. Applicants must provide supporting evidence for the category under which they claim benefits.

Dependants of martyrs

The family members of individuals who lost their lives while participating in India's freedom struggle may be eligible for the pension, subject to documentary proof and scheme guidelines.

Imprisonment during the freedom movement

Individuals who were imprisoned for at least six months due to their participation in the freedom struggle are eligible. For women and SC/ST freedom fighters, the minimum imprisonment requirement is three months.

Underground participation

Those who remained underground for more than six months to avoid arrest while actively participating in the independence movement may also qualify under the scheme.

Property confiscation or loss

Freedom fighters whose property was confiscated, damaged, or sold because of their involvement in the freedom struggle can apply, provided they submit the required documentary evidence.

Permanent injury during the movement

Applicants who became permanently disabled due to bullet injuries, lathi charges, or similar incidents during the freedom movement may qualify for the pension.

Loss of government employment

Individuals who lost their government job because of their participation in the independence movement are also eligible under the prescribed conditions.

Punishment during the freedom struggle

Those who received punishment such as caning, flogging, or whipping for their role in the freedom movement may also be considered eligible under the scheme.

Documents required for the Samman Pension application

Applicants must submit supporting documents based on the category under which they are applying. The documents help establish participation in the freedom movement and verify eligibility.

Proof for dependants of martyrs

Eligible dependants should submit official records, historical government documents, or newspaper reports confirming the martyr's contribution to the freedom struggle.

Imprisonment records

Applicants who were imprisoned should provide certificates issued by the concerned jail authorities, District Magistrate, or State Government mentioning the imprisonment details.

Proof of underground participation

Those who remained underground should submit government notifications, court orders, detention orders, or other official records declaring them absconders or announcing rewards for their arrest.

Documents for property confiscation or job loss

Applicants claiming benefits under these categories should provide confiscation orders, property sale records, dismissal orders, or other official government documents supporting their claim.

Medical certificates for permanent disability

Individuals who suffered permanent disability should submit a certificate issued by the District Magistrate confirming that the injury occurred during participation in the freedom struggle.

Medical certificate for physical disability

Applicants with physical disabilities may also be required to provide a medical certificate issued by a Civil Surgeon or another competent medical authority.

Who qualifies as dependants for SSSY?

Under the SSSY, eligible dependants may continue receiving pension after the death of a freedom fighter, provided they satisfy the prescribed conditions. Eligible dependants include the widow or widower (until remarriage), unmarried daughters, mother, and father. If more than one eligible dependant exists, priority is generally given first to the spouse, followed by unmarried daughters, mother, and then father. Only one eligible dependant can receive the pension at a time.

Additional benefits under the SSSY scheme

Apart from the monthly pension, the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana provides several welfare facilities to eligible pensioners and, in certain cases, their dependants. These benefits recognise the contribution of freedom fighters and support their well-being.

Free lifetime railway travel

Eligible freedom fighters and their spouses can avail of complimentary railway travel for life. In most cases, one companion is also permitted to travel with the pensioner under the applicable rules.

Medical facilities under CGHS

Beneficiaries can receive medical treatment through the Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS) and other approved government or public sector hospitals, subject to the scheme's provisions.

Telephone connection support

Where technically feasible, eligible pensioners may receive a landline telephone connection without installation charges. They may also receive concessions on rental charges as per the prevailing government guidelines.

Reservation for petrol pumps and gas agencies

Eligible freedom fighters are covered under the reserved category for the allotment of petrol pumps and LPG distributorships managed by Public Sector Oil Marketing Companies.

Residential accommodation in Delhi

Freedom fighters may be considered for residential accommodation in Delhi under the prescribed discretionary quota. In eligible cases, the spouse may retain the accommodation for a limited period after the pensioner's demise.

Freedom fighters' old-age home

Eligible pensioners can access dedicated old-age homes established for freedom fighters in New Delhi. These facilities may also provide temporary accommodation and meals when required.

Free annual air travel for Ex-Andaman freedom fighters

Ex-Andaman political prisoners and their eligible spouses can avail of one complimentary air journey each year to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, along with one companion, subject to applicable conditions.

How to apply for SSSY?

Eligible applicants can apply for the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana by following the prescribed application process.

Step 1: Obtain the application form

Collect two copies of the application form from the respective State Government, Union Territory Administration, or the Freedom Fighters' Division of the Ministry of Home Affairs.

Step 2: Complete the application

Fill in all the required details carefully and attach the relevant supporting documents. Self-attested copies may be submitted wherever permitted.

Step 3: Submit the first application

Send one completed application to the Chief Secretary of your respective State Government or Union Territory Administration for verification.

Step 4: Send the advance copy

Forward the second copy to the Deputy Secretary, Freedom Fighters' Division, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, Lok Nayak Bhawan, New Delhi, as an advance copy for processing.

How is SSSY Offered to Freedom Fighters?

Here is the process of how the government disburses the pension amount to eligible recipients:

The Ministry of Home Affairs sends an approval notice, along with the required documents and the bank details of the applicant.
The Pay and Accounts Division issues a Pension Payment Order (PPO) for the pensioner.
The pensioner presents the PPO at the designated government bank to receive the pension funds.

Conclusion

The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana reflects the Government of India's continued commitment to honouring the sacrifices of the nation's freedom fighters. Through monthly pension support, welfare facilities, and assistance for eligible dependants, the scheme provides long-term financial security and recognition. Understanding the eligibility conditions, required documents, application process, and available benefits can help eligible individuals and families access the support offered under this historic pension scheme.

Key Takeaways:

Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana (SSSY) is a Government of India pension scheme that honours freedom fighters by providing a monthly pension, Dearness Relief (DR), and tax-exempt benefits.
The scheme extends support to eligible dependants and offers additional welfare benefits such as healthcare assistance, travel concessions, and residential support.

Need assistance in choosing the right insurance plan?

Peaceful Retirement Awaits: Discover Your Perfect Pension Plan

Are you an NRI?

Yes

Name

Mobile number

+91

Plan

Looking to buy a new insurance plan?

Our experts are happy to help you!

Are you an NRI?

Yes

Are you an NRI?

Yes

Name

Plan

What are the advantages of SSSY?

The Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana extends the following benefits to Indian freedom fighters:
● Sufficient Monthly Income: The scheme offers a regular monthly pension to freedom fighters and their eligible family dependents. ● Financial Assistance for Dependents: It includes provisions for providing monthly income to the spouses, daughters, or parents of freedom fighters ● Self-Sufficiency: The SSSY scheme empowers Central Samman Pension recipients to lead an honourable, self-reliant life with improved living standards. ● Commemorating Freedom Fighters' Contributions: Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana aims to honour the sacrifices made by freedom fighters during the Indian Freedom Struggle.

Who is not eligible for Samman Pension?

The following individuals are not eligible for the Samman Pension:
● Freedom fighters who were members of the armed forces, police, or any other government organisation. ● Dependents of freedom fighters who have already received a family pension from the central or state government. ●Dependents of freedom fighters convicted of a criminal offence and sentenced to imprisonment for five years or more.

What is the timeline of the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana?

● The Indian government first initiated the 'Ex-Andaman Political Prisoners Pension Scheme' to the freedom fighters who were imprisoned in the Cellular Jail at Port Blair. ● In 1972, on the occasion of the 25th Anniversary of Independence, a regular pension scheme for freedom fighters was established. ● Since 1980, a more generous program called the 'Swatantrata Sainik Samman Pension Scheme, 1980' has been in effect. ● Starting from the 2017-18 fiscal year, the scheme was renamed 'Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana.' Over time, the pension amount has been adjusted, and Dearness Relief has been granted since 2016.

How much is the monthly pension amount under SSSY?

The SSSY pension varies by beneficiary category. Eligible freedom fighters currently receive monthly pension amounts ranging from ₹38,480 to ₹44,400, including applicable Dearness Relief.

Is the Samman Pension taxable?

No. The pension received under the Swatantrata Sainik Samman Yojana is exempt* from income tax as per the applicable government provisions.

For how long is the Samman Pension granted?

Freedom fighters receive the pension for life. Eligible unmarried daughters may continue receiving it until marriage or financial independence, subject to the scheme's conditions.

What happens to the Samman Pension if the pensioner passes away?

Eligible dependants must submit a fresh application along with the pensioner's death certificate and supporting documents to claim pension under the applicable eligibility rules.

Insurance cover is available under the product.
The products are underwritten by Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd.
The plans are not a guaranteed issuance plan, and it will be subject to Company’s underwriting and acceptance.
For more details on risk factors, terms and conditions please read sales brochure carefully before concluding a sale.
This blog is for information and illustrative purposes only and does not purport to any financial or investment services and do not offer or form part of any offer or recommendation. The information is not and should not be regarded as investment advice or as a recommendation regarding any particular security or course of action.
Please know the associated risks and the applicable charges, from your Insurance agent or the Intermediary or policy document issued by the insurance company.
Every effort is made to ensure that all information contained in this blog is accurate at the date of publication, however, the Tata AIA Life shall not have any liability for any damages of any kind (including but not limited to errors and omissions) whatsoever relating to this material.
*Income Tax benefits would be available as per the prevailing income tax laws, subject to fulfilment of conditions stipulated therein. Income Tax laws are subject to change from time to time. Tata AIA Life Insurance Company Ltd. does not assume responsibility on tax implications mentioned anywhere in this document. Please consult your own tax consultant to know the tax benefits available to you.
Guaranteed/Guarantee:¹Guaranteed Returns/Payouts depend on Plan Option, Policy Term, Premium Payment Term and Age at entry.