In a significant step toward improving welfare services for ex-servicemen, the Indian Army has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Axis Bank and CSC e-Governance to expand Project NAMAN to 25 additional locations across the country. The initiative, spearheaded by the Directorate of Indian Army Veterans, aims to provide seamless pension-related and digital citizen services through SPARSH-enabled Common Service Centres (CSCs) to veterans, their next of kin, and widows.
At the signing ceremony, representatives from the Indian Army, Axis Bank, and CSC e-Governance came together under the banner of Project NAMAN, reaffirming a shared commitment to serving India’s defense community. The event, held in New Delhi, featured both uniformed military personnel and civilian dignitaries, highlighting the cooperation between the armed forces and private sector in supporting veterans.
Project NAMAN, part of the Indian Army’s ongoing efforts to improve post-retirement welfare, integrates with the Ministry of Defence’s SPARSH platform—System for Pension Administration (Raksha). SPARSH is a digital system designed to streamline pension processing and disbursement for armed forces personnel and defense civilians. With this expansion under Phase II, the initiative will now reach veterans in remote and underserved areas, significantly reducing their dependency on centralized pension offices.
The new CSCs will provide a wide range of services including access to pension entitlements, income tax documents, and grievance redressal. Veterans will also be able to manage their profiles and access real-time pension information via the SPARSH portal, ensuring transparency and timely support.
Axis Bank’s involvement in the project is part of its broader “Power Salute” program, which offers specialized financial services and benefits to defense personnel. Previously, the bank has signed similar agreements with other branches of the armed forces, offering packages that include substantial insurance coverage and educational grants for children. The bank’s participation in Project NAMAN extends these services to Indian Army veterans, reinforcing its support for the military community.
CSC e-Governance Services India Ltd, with its extensive network of digital service centers across rural India, plays a critical role in ensuring last-mile delivery of essential services. Through this partnership, even veterans in distant areas will gain direct access to digital pension services, enhancing inclusivity and convenience.
As of 2025, India has approximately 2.5 million veterans. The expansion of Project NAMAN represents a significant milestone in the nation’s efforts to care for its retired military personnel. The initiative exemplifies how public-private collaboration and digital innovation can together improve service delivery and reaffirm the nation’s gratitude toward its soldiers.
The Indian Army has reiterated its dedication to the motto “Taking Care of Our Own,” signaling an enduring commitment to those who have served. This development not only streamlines pension access but also strengthens the broader ecosystem of veteran support in India.
