Focus aimed at welfare for military veterans

Remembering and looking after those that have served in China’s armed forces is a priority that the Shenyang government places high on its agenda.

For veterans, it is crucial to provide them with the care they need to give them a sense of gain, honor and belonging, local officials said.

Over the past few years, the local authority has made progress in this field via preferential policies and measures.

During the 13th Five-Year Plan (2016-20), the average increase in pensions and living allowances for most veterans was 10 percent, according to the local government.

One of the beneficiaries is Sun Deshan, 88, who was a veteran of the War to Resist US Aggression and Aid Korea (1950-53).

“The local authority increases the subsidies for us (each year) on China’s Army Day.

“It is a great honor for me to be a military veteran,” Sun said.

This year, the bureau for demobilized military personnel affairs of Shenyang has cooperated with 18 related departments, to provide better care and incentives for veterans.

Together, they have rolled out a guideline on increasing the preferential treatment policies for veterans and ensuring benefits for the families of those who have died in service of the people.

The treatments incorporate sectors including livelihood, healthcare and convenient services.

In January 2021, a new regulation on protecting veterans will come into force in the city, said Chen Libo, deputy head of the bureau.

“The city will continue to enhance the work and provide better and more qualified services to demobilized military personnel and the families of people who have died in service of the people,” Chen said.

This is also aimed at increasing their social role, Chen added.

PROVIDED TO CHINA DAILY Sun Deshan (left) shows a bag for storing food rations to a local official at a memorial hall.