China is to increase subsidy for retired servicemen who were
recruited after November 1954 and had fought battles and those who
participated nuclear tests beginning in August, according to a
decision by the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee
and the State Council.
Beginning from August 1, allowances will be offered to veterans
who joined the service after November 1, 1954 and had fought
battles," says the decision.
The policy concerning allowances for veterans who had
participated in nuclear tests shall be perfected, the decision
says.
Policies regarding the provision of medical services and housing
for veterans shall also be perfected and more faithfully
implemented, the decision says.
Since the country's reform and opening-up in late 1970s, the
Chinese government has increased allowance for armymen who became
handicapped in service for 14 times.
Allowance for revolutionary martyrs' family members and veterans
of the Red Army (the predecessor of the PLA) living rural areas
have been raised for 17 times.
The move is an important measure on the part of the Party to
follow the "people-first" governance concept, apply the scientific
concept of development and build a harmonious society, the decision
says.
The PLA shall mark the 80th anniversary of its founding on
August 1, the Army Day.
(Xinhua News Agency July 23, 2007)