The Gurkha families fighting for their pensions
Summary
Many Gurkha veterans and their families in the UK receive pensions based on Nepal’s cost of living, which is much less than in British towns like Reading where many live. As a result, some elderly Gurkha widows struggle to pay for basic needs and are asking the government for higher pensions and better support.Key Facts
- Gurkha veterans who retired before 1997 get pensions calculated on Nepal costs, not UK costs.
- Indumati Thapa, 87, relies on a small pension and about £100 a week in benefits to cover rent, bills, and food.
- Many elderly Gurkha widows find their pensions insufficient for UK living expenses.
- Some Gurkha veterans and families have limited ability to read or write and depend on relatives for help.
- Local MPs, including Labour’s Matt Rodda, are pressing the government to improve older Gurkha pensions and support.
- The UK government says it respects Gurkha service and is committed to supporting their welfare.
- Devisara Rana, a Gurkha widow, wishes to visit Nepal but cannot afford the trip.
- The issue highlights challenges faced by Gurkha families living in the UK decades after their service.
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