There is a shortage of 16.82 lakh service medals in the army, navy and air force due to which deserving personnel could not be conferred the award.
Minister of State for Defence Subhash Bhamre, replying to a question in the Lok Sabha, said the Defence Ministry has been vigorously making efforts to clear the backlog.
"As on December 31, 2016, around 16,82,577 Service Medals are pending for issue to tri-services," he said.
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The minister said two proposals for procurement of 7.6 lakh and 9.89 lakh medals are already in the pipeline.
To another question, he said the government is considering creation of a post of Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) and a decision on it will be taken after consultation with political parties.
Referring to the Naresh Chandra Task Force on National Security recommending creation of a post of Permanent Chairman Chief of Staff Committee, Bhamre said the government is also examining it.
Replying to another query, he said as per guidelines, the government has approved payment of ex-gratia lump sum compensation of Rs 15 lakh each, Death-cum-Retirement Gratuity and Liberalised Family Pension to the next of kin of 19 martyred soldiers of the Uri terror attack.
"Besides, payment of Rs 30 lakh each from Army Group Insurance Fund has also been made apart from payment from various other welfare funds. The ex-gratia compensation has since been enhanced to Rs 35 lakh. The balance amount will be paid in due course," he said.
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