Rs 1 crore ex-gratia now for families of Delhi's firefighters

NEW DELHI: The families of Delhi Fire Services personnel who lose their lives while on action will now be provided Rs 1 crore compensation, a policy of the Delhi government which until now covered other uniformed services personnel.

A decision in this regard was taken today in a Delhi Cabinet meeting presided over by Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal.

The Cabinet approval brings Delhi Fire Services on par with the armed forces, paramilitary forces and other uniformed forces in terms of compensation, an official statement said.

"This compensation policy also covers the uniformed personnel killed on duty outside Delhi, but whose families reside in the national capital," it said.

The government also cleared a proposal to institute "bravery awards", which it said will be given on Independence and Republic Day every year.

"Ten awards will be given on both the days, carrying a cash amount of Rs 2 lakh each. Members of the public will have a right to send nominations for these awards," the government said.