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)