Verification of Defence Pensioners to be Done Through Mobile Phones

The office of the Defence Pension Disbursement Officer (DPDO) in Patiala has shifted to new technology for verification of pensioners as curfew imposition remains implemented in city over Covid-19 concerns.

Notably, a number of pensioners have been reaching the office for annual verification for pensions concerned over lapse in process.

The office in Patiala deals with pension-related concerns of defence pensioners from the district, Fatehgarh Sahib and parts of Mohali. The Ministry of Defence recently sent a notification to stop physical verification of pensioners and instead, contact the pensioners through phone, video calling modes for annual verification.

The ministry said: “The physical presence may not be sought for pensioners. DPDOs may confirm the life of the pensioners by contacting them through phones for those who are not able to produce life certificate.”

Manjit Singh Lotey, Defence Pension Disbursement Officer, Patiala, said: “The decision has been taken to ensure social distancing.”

He said a number of pensioners had come to their office since the curfew was imposed as it was the only source of their livelihood. “But we advised them not to come here as the verification is temporarily being done through mobile phones. They can also submit the life certificate attested by their sarpanches, councillors and others.”

Source: Tribune India

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