New Delhi: With the rise in number of queries to assist next of kins of battle causalities with monetary assistance, the army has decided to create a separate and centralised fund for such a purpose.

“Of late, a large number of philanthropic organisations and individuals have been approaching in a benevolent gesture to assist next of kins of battle causalities with monetary assistance.

“Post detailed deliberations, it was decided that donations/contributions would be accepted from such organizations and individuals through a separate and centralised fund focused for such a purpose,” a Defence spokesperson said.

The spokesperson said a surge of such requests has come about post the Siachen avalanche where the Indian Army lost 10 brave soldiers.

This would be in addition to the various existing schemes for the welfare of next of kins and children of battle casualties.

Accordingly, Indian Army has opened a new bank account for welfare of bereaved families of Battle Casualties named “Army Welfare Fund Battle Casualties”.

Organisations and individuals desirous of donating to the cause can transfer the contribution directly in the account of “Army Welfare Fund Battle Casualties” in the South Block Branch of Syndicate Bank.

The Branch Code, IFSC and Account no of the bank is 9055, SYNB0009055 and Account No- 90552010165915 respectively.

Alternatively, the amount can also be forwarded through Cheque/Demand Draft in favour of “Army Welfare Fund Battle Casualties” payable at New Delhi at the following address Director Accounts Section, Adjutant General’s Branch, Ceremonial & Welfare Directorate, IHQ of MoD (Army), New Delhi-110011.

“The contribution to the fund is purely voluntary in nature and the fund shall be exclusively used for the welfare of Next of Kins of Battle Casualties,” the spokesperson added.

PTI