Key Points
SPARSH launched in 2020 as Digital India initiative
Over 200 DAD offices assist pensioners
50 lakh calls answered on helpline since 2014
Special outreach programs for remote areas
Launched in October 2020, SPARSH is a ‘Digital India’ initiative that aims to provide a comprehensive and efficient solution for managing defence pensions, including sanctioning and disbursing pensions to the Armed Forces personnel and Defence civilians living across the country.
Over 200 Defence Accounts Department (DAD) offices, 16 bank branches and nearly five lakh CSCs are operational to help pensioners, said the Ministry of Defence in a statement.
In order to help veterans and their families, old women and people living in remote areas where there are no computers and internet facilities, Raksha Pension Samadhan Ayojans (RPSA) are organised at various places to resolve their problems.
During January 2024 to December 2024, seven RPSAs were organised in different parts of the country.
In addition, more than 90 SPARSH outreach programmes have been organised by DAD during the same period to assist veterans and their families, informed the ministry.
“Ex-servicemen and their families can also get help and required information regarding their pension by calling PCDA (P) toll free number 1800-180-5325, where fully trained staff are deployed to help. So far, more than 50 lakh calls have been answered providing them help and information since its inception in December, 2014,” the ministry informed.
Multiple agencies, lack of technical expertise, siloed work approach and lack of coordination led to incorrect payouts to pensioners due to delayed or incorrect or non-revision of pension with widows bearing the brunt of this problem, getting fixed at minimum pension rates.
Not only were there delays in payment of monthly pensions, there was no visibility or transparency to the pensioners, regarding their data and entitlements. Grievances were not attended to by the PDAs on account of lack of knowledge or laxity.
To mitigate such problems, SPARSH was conceptualised and implemented successfully where sanctioning of the pension and its disbursement directly to the account of the pension was brought onto a single platform.
—IANS
Comments:
Rajesh K.
This is a great initiative! My father was struggling with pension delays before SPARSH. Now payments come on time every month without fail. 👏
Meena S.
While the digital system is good, many elderly veterans in my village still find it difficult to use. More physical help centers would be better.
Col. Sharma R.
As a retired officer, I appreciate how SPARSH has brought transparency to the process. No more endless visits to banks to check pension status!
Anita M.
The toll-free helpline has been a lifesaver for my 80-year-old mother who is a war widow. Staff are patient and helpful with all her queries.
Vikram P.
Good progress but still 1 lakh pensioners left to onboard. Hope the government completes this soon and ensures no one is left behind.
