Field Marshal Manekshaw receives pay arrears of Rs.11.6mn

NEW DELHI: Field Marshal Sam Manekshaw, currently recuperating in a military hospital, on Wednesday received a cheque of Rs.11.6 million in back wages from the time he assumed the rank in 1973.

This follows the government's decision to provide the same pay and privileges as applicable to the three services to officers who hold an honorary five-star rank in recognition of their distinguished service.

Similar back wages will also be paid to Marshal of the Air Force Arjan Singh, the only other officer to be conferred a five-star rank.

Defence Secretary Shekhar Dutt handed over the cheque to 93-year-old Manekshaw, who is credited with masterminding the 1971 military operation that led to the liberation of Bangladesh, at the Military Hospital in Wellington, where he is currently undergoing age-related treatment.

Dutt, a former Indian Army officer, is himself a veteran of the 1971 war. He later quit the army to join India's civil service.

Asked by Manekshaw whether the arrears would be taxed, the defence secretary replied that if at all this was done the minimum amount possible would be deducted, adding he would try to get the amount exempted.

Dutt conveyed the greetings of President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam, who is also the supreme commander of the armed forces, and handed over a message from Prime Minister Manmohan Singh.