In a significant initiative aimed at addressing the concerns of defence pensioners, the Controller of Defence Accounts, Chennai, will organise the 53rd SPARSH outreach programme in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The outreach, part of a nationwide series under the SPARSH initiative, is expected to benefit thousands of pensioners in Thiruvananthapuram and neighbouring districts, including Kollam, Pathanamthitta, Kottayam, and Nagercoil.

The initiative, coordinated by the Chennai zone of the Controller of Defence Accounts, is designed to provide a one-stop platform for pensioners to resolve all issues related to their defence pensions. Speaking at a press conference in Thiruvananthapuram, Jayaseelan, Controller of Defence Accounts, Chennai, emphasised the importance of such programmes in ensuring that pensioners remain informed about changes in pension rules and policies, while also having their grievances addressed promptly.

Expected Participation and Duration

According to Jayaseelan, the programme anticipates participation from around 1,000 to 1,500 defence pensioners. He assured that every issue raised by the attendees would be addressed on the same day, with no restrictions on the timing required to conclude the event. The outreach is scheduled to begin at 9 am and will continue until the last pensioner has been attended to, reflecting the administration’s commitment to thorough and personalised service.

The SPARSH programme, which stands for “Systematic Pension Administration for Reaching and Serving Heroes,” is part of an ongoing effort by the Indian Defence Accounts Service (IDAS) to improve pension services and ensure transparency in addressing pensioners’ concerns. By bringing together all relevant stakeholders, including officials from the defence accounts department and associated administrative units, the initiative aims to provide comprehensive solutions on-site rather than relying on protracted procedural channels.

Bridging Awareness Gaps Among Pensioners

A key focus of the outreach is to raise awareness among pensioners about changes in rules and entitlements that many may not be familiar with. Jayaseelan pointed out that, historically, defence personnel who later joined state government offices or public sector undertakings were required to choose between receiving a defence pension or a state/PSU pension. However, following amendments in 2012, pensioners are now eligible to receive both pensions simultaneously. Despite this, a considerable number of pensioners remain unaware of their eligibility, leading to confusion and unclaimed benefits.

The programme will also provide clarity on family pension schemes, enabling surviving dependents to understand their entitlements and facilitate smooth claim processes. Such measures are particularly important in regions like Kerala, where a large concentration of defence pensioners reside. The Thiruvananthapuram region, along with nearby districts in Tamil Nadu, is reported to have the highest number of defence pensioners in the country, highlighting the importance of accessible and effective outreach initiatives.

Service Centres for Pensioners Across Kerala

The IDAS has already established ‘First Service Centres’ in nearly all districts of Kerala, providing pension-related services and support to local defence retirees. Jayaseelan noted that the only remaining districts without these centres are Malappuram and Idukki, and plans are underway to set up facilities in these areas shortly. Once operational, Kerala will be the only state in India to have such service centres in every district, ensuring uniform access to pension services for all defence retirees across the state.

These service centres act as regional nodes where pensioners can submit applications, verify entitlements, and seek guidance on complex pension matters without having to travel to distant administrative offices. By decentralising service delivery, IDAS aims to make the system more efficient and responsive to the needs of retirees.

Future SPARSH Outreach Programmes in Kerala

The 53rd SPARSH programme in Thiruvananthapuram is part of a broader series planned across Kerala. Following this event, IDAS intends to organise at least two additional outreach programmes to address pension-related concerns in other districts, ensuring that pensioners from all parts of the state receive timely assistance.

The outreach programme has also attracted dignitaries from across the state, with Kerala Governor Rajendra Arlekar confirmed to be the chief guest at the event. The presence of the Governor underscores the significance of the initiative and highlights the state’s commitment to supporting the welfare of defence personnel and their families.

Impact on Pensioner Welfare

For many defence pensioners, navigating bureaucratic procedures and understanding entitlements can be challenging, particularly as rules evolve over time. Programmes like SPARSH aim to simplify these processes, reduce administrative delays, and provide transparency in the disbursement of pensions and related benefits. The initiative is expected to reduce the need for repeated visits to offices, long waits, and the frustration that often accompanies pension-related queries.

The comprehensive approach adopted during the outreach—where all stakeholders are present to resolve issues immediately—ensures that pensioners do not face unnecessary delays. By addressing concerns directly and on-site, the programme fosters trust and confidence in government systems and provides a model for similar initiatives in other states.

Conclusion

The 53rd SPARSH outreach programme represents a critical step in improving pension services for defence personnel in Kerala. By combining awareness campaigns, on-the-spot issue resolution, and the expansion of service centres across the state, the IDAS is actively working to enhance the welfare of defence pensioners. With high participation expected and a focus on resolving issues comprehensively, the programme exemplifies the administration’s commitment to those who have served the nation.

Through such initiatives, Kerala is set to become a benchmark state in terms of defence pension administration, ensuring that every pensioner has easy access to information, assistance, and timely resolution of grievances.