Answer By law4u team
Updating service records is an important process for veterans to ensure that their details, including career history, medical records, pension information, and other service-related information, are accurate and up to date. This is crucial for accessing various benefits, including pensions, healthcare, and other welfare services provided by the government.
Process to Update Service Records for Indian Veterans:
Contact the Concerned Department:
Indian Army: Veterans can contact the Record Office where they were originally enrolled, or the Directorate General of Resettlement (DGR) for any updates.
Indian Navy: Veterans must approach the Naval Record Office for updates or changes to their service details.
Indian Air Force: The Air Force Records Office manages updates for Air Force personnel.
Document Submission:
To update their service records, veterans typically need to submit a written request or application outlining the changes they wish to make.
Important documents required may include:
- Service Book (for army veterans).
- Pension Payment Orders (PPO).
- Medical Records (if updates are related to health status).
- Discharge Certificates or Retirement Orders.
- Any supporting documents for corrections such as identity proof, birth certificates, or marriage certificates.
Online Service for Some Branches:
Indian Army: Veterans can use the Veterans Portal for updating their service records, checking pension status, and more. They can also use the VEcare 1904 helpline for assistance.
Indian Navy: Some updates can be done through the Navy's online portal, or by contacting the Navy Welfare and Rehabilitation Board.
Indian Air Force: The Air Force Personnel Records can be contacted through the official IAF portal or by reaching out to the nearest Air Force station.
Filling Out the Application:
Once the necessary documents are collected, veterans should fill out the Service Records Update Form provided by their respective record offices.
For pension-related changes, an application for pension correction may need to be submitted.
Submitting the Request:
The completed forms and supporting documents can be submitted either online (if the branch provides that service) or in person at the appropriate office.
If submitting by post, ensure all documents are properly signed and copies are attested.
Verification and Processing:
The concerned record office will verify the submitted information and documents. If all documents are in order, the service records will be updated accordingly.
It may take some time for the request to be processed depending on the volume of requests and the nature of the updates.
Confirmation:
Once the update is processed, the veteran will receive a confirmation, often in the form of an updated Service Book or official letter confirming the change. If the update pertains to pension, the Pension Payment Order (PPO) will be updated as well.
Example:
Example 1:
An ex-serviceman named Rajesh, who served in the Indian Army, needs to update his service record to reflect his promotion that was missed in the original documentation. He contacts the Army Record Office and submits the following documents:
- Promotion Orders
- Discharge Certificate
- Updated Service Book
After processing his request, Rajesh receives confirmation that his service record has been updated, ensuring that his pension reflects his correct rank.
Example 2:
A retired Air Force officer named Aakash needs to update his medical records with the Air Force for treatment under the ECHS (Ex-Servicemen Contributory Health Scheme). He visits the Air Force Records Office, submits a medical certificate, and fills out the service records update form. His medical history is updated, allowing him to access better healthcare benefits.
Important Points to Remember:
- Timeliness: It is recommended to update service records as soon as any significant changes occur, such as a promotion, change in marital status, or changes to health conditions.
- Accuracy: Ensure that all documents are correct and properly attested to avoid delays in the update process.
- Pension Related Updates: If the updates are related to pension, the Pension Payment Order (PPO) should also be checked to ensure it reflects the correct information.
