PM Modi addressed the nation after unfurling the National flag at Red Fort. (AFP Photo)
Prime Minister Narendra Modi today announced a 20 per cent hike in the pension of freedom fighters in hid Independence Day speech.
"Pension for our freedom fighters will be increased by 20 per cent. So those who are receiving Rs 25,000 will now get Rs 30,000," PM Modi said in his address to the nation from the Red Fort on the 70th Independence Day.
He also announced that museums would be established in different states to glorify the role of lesser-known tribal freedom fighters.
"Tribals played an important role in our freedom struggle. Our government is planning to open museums all over the country to glorify their role so that future generations can know about their sacrifices," PM Modi said.
The government, last August, on the 73rd anniversary of the Quit India Day also increased the pension for freedom fighters by hiking dearness relief by 218 per cent.
The present rate of pension is Rs 23,309 per month for political prisoners jailed in the Andamans, Rs 20,1291 for freedom fighters/spouses, Rs 4,770 for unmarried/unemployed daughters and Rs 10,064 for two spouses.
The total number central freedom fighters pensioners is 35,900 as on January 1, 2015.