The recent change in regulations by the Central government affects parents who receive family pension following the demise of their government-employed child. It is now mandatory for both parents to present a life certificate annually to continue receiving the enhanced pension amount of 75%.
This directive, issued by the Department of Pension and Pensioners’ Welfare (DoPPW), addresses instances where pensions were erroneously paid at the higher rate despite the passing of one parent. The objective of this new guideline is to ensure that pensions are disbursed accurately to the rightful beneficiaries.
Previously, under the existing system, parents of a deceased government employee were entitled to pension only if the child was unmarried or had no spouse or children. When both parents are alive, they are granted 75% of the employee’s final salary as pension. In the event of one parent’s demise, the pension reduces to 60%.
The pension is provided irrespective of the parents’ other income sources. However, the previous rules did not explicitly state the requirement for both parents to submit life certificates. This oversight led to situations where families continued to receive 75% pension even after the loss of one parent, resulting in errors and overpayments.
To rectify these discrepancies, the new mandate necessitates that both parents individually submit their life certificates annually to maintain the 75% pension rate. This verification process enables pension authorities to confirm the status of both recipients.
In the unfortunate event of one parent’s passing, the pension automatically adjusts to 60% for the surviving parent. The DoPPW has instructed all departments to raise awareness to prevent families from missing out on vital information.
Parents receiving family pension are now required to submit their life certificates yearly. In cases where both parents are alive, each must provide a separate certificate. Failure to update the certificate upon the death of one parent may lead to subsequent corrections in excess payments.
The life certificate submission can be done digitally or manually in accordance with the existing pension procedures. It is crucial to note that this step is now mandatory to ensure the full entitled amount is received.
Furthermore, the life certificate deadline is November 30 each year. Non-compliance may result in a temporary suspension of pension from December onwards until the verification is completed.
This government initiative aims to enhance accuracy, fairness, and efficiency in pension processing while reducing errors in disbursement.