Call to DoT for interim pension support
The Bharat Pensioner Samaj has petitioned the Department of Telecommunication (DoT) to grant a provisional family pension to eligible widows and widowers for up to six months while their regular claims are processed.
The plea cites financial distress caused by delays in claim processing and verification, noting that interim support can ensure a steady income during the interim period.
- Eligibility: widows and widowers of pensioners covered under DoT schemes would qualify for the provisional pension.
- Duration: up to six months from the date of provisional approval.
- Mechanism: the provisional pension would be payable at the applicable rate and linked to the pending final settlement.
- Safeguards: steps would be taken to prevent misuse and to align provisional payments with final claims.
- Impact: aims to ease financial stress for families relying on pension as a primary income source.
Officials have yet to comment on the proposal, and the Bharat Pensioner Samaj said it will press for a swift decision and clear guidelines if approved.
