The Supreme Court of India has urged the Centre and the Indian Air Force (IAF) to reconsider the definition of “mother” in family pension regulations to include step-mothers. This plea arises from a case where a woman, who raised her stepson after his biological mother passed away, was denied benefits. The Court emphasized that “mother” is a broad term and should encompass those who fulfill maternal roles, advocating for a more inclusive interpretation. The IAF’s rigid definition was challenged, highlighting the need for social welfare schemes to adapt to modern family structures and provide equitable benefits.