One Rank One Pension (OROP) was a historic victory for armed forces veterans after decades of struggle. However, its implementation has been complex, with many veterans receiving incorrect calculations or incomplete arrears. This guide explains what OROP means for you and how to ensure you receive your complete entitlement.
What is OROP?
OROP stands for One Rank One Pension. It is a scheme that ensures armed forces personnel retiring in the same rank with the same length of service receive the same pension, regardless of their date of retirement.
Before OROP
A Major who retired in 1990 received far less pension than a Major who retired in 2010, even if both had identical service. This created massive disparity among veterans.
After OROP
Both Majors now receive equalized pension based on 2013 rates, regardless of when they actually retired.
Key Features of OROP
- Effective Date: July 1, 2014
- Base Year: Calendar Year 2013 – Pensions equalized based on the average of minimum and maximum pension for each rank in 2013
- Coverage: All past pensioners of Army, Navy, and Air Force
- Re-fixation: Every 5 years – Prevents future disparity from developing
- Arrears: From July 1, 2014 to the date of actual revision
How OROP Pension is Calculated
Step 1: Identify your rank at retirement and qualifying service
Step 2: Find the OROP rate for your rank + service combination (official OROP tables issued by PCDA)
Step 3: Compare your current pension with the OROP rate
Step 4: If your pension is lower than OROP rate, it should be revised upward
Step 5: Calculate arrears from July 1, 2014 to revision date
Common OROP Problems
1. Incorrect OROP Calculation
Many veterans have received pension revised at incorrect rates due to wrong rank category applied, incorrect qualifying service counted, outdated OROP tables used, or arithmetic errors.
2. Short Arrears
Arrears should be calculated from July 1, 2014. If you received less, period calculation may be wrong, rate applied may be incorrect, or some months may have been missed.
3. OROP Not Applied
Some veterans haven’t received OROP revision at all due to file not processed, incorrect records, or administrative delays.
4. Disability Pension + OROP
For veterans with disability pension, both service element and disability element should be revised, and broad banding should be correctly applied. Many cases have errors in this calculation.
How to Claim OROP Arrears
If You Haven’t Received OROP
Step 1: Submit written representation to PCDA (Pensions) Allahabad, your Record Office. Include service details, PPO number, and bank details.
Step 2: Follow up regularly. Track your application and respond to queries promptly.
Step 3: If no response in 6 months, consider legal action.
If OROP Calculation is Wrong
Step 1: Obtain calculation sheet from PCDA (shows how your pension was calculated). RTI can be used if not provided.
Step 2: Identify the discrepancy. Compare with official OROP tables and document the difference.
Step 3: Submit detailed representation pointing out specific errors, provide correct calculation, and request correction and arrears.
Step 4: If rejected or ignored, file Original Application at AFT seeking correct OROP revision and arrears with interest.
Need Help with OROP?
If you believe your OROP calculation is incorrect or you haven’t received arrears, Ajit Kakkar and Associates can help verify your OROP calculation, identify shortfalls, and pursue claims through representation and AFT. You fought for OROP. We’ll fight for your correct entitlement.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes. OROP rates and rules may be updated. For specific calculation and legal advice, consult a qualified military lawyer.
