Kerala Government Announces February 25 Start for Welfare Pension Distribution
The Kerala government will commence the distribution of social security and welfare fund pensions for the current month starting on February 25, as announced by Finance Minister K N Balagopal on Monday. A substantial allocation of Rs 1,050 crore has been earmarked specifically for this crucial welfare initiative.
Extensive Reach: 62 Lakh Beneficiaries to Receive Rs 2,000 Each
Approximately 62 lakh people across the state are set to benefit from this pension distribution, with each recipient receiving Rs 2,000. The disbursement will be conducted through multiple channels to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Direct Bank Transfers and Home Delivery
- The pension amount will be directly credited to the bank accounts of 26.62 lakh beneficiaries
- Remaining recipients will receive their payments at home through cooperative banks
- Welfare pensions for welfare fund members will be distributed through their respective boards
State Government Steps In for Central Share Allocation
Minister Balagopal highlighted a significant intervention by the state government regarding the central share of the national pension scheme. "The central government is responsible for providing the central share to 8.46 lakh people under the national pension scheme. However, due to non-receipt of these funds at regular intervals, the state government has proactively allocated Rs 24.21 crore as the central share," Balagopal stated.
This pre-emptive allocation will be channeled to beneficiaries' bank accounts through the central government's PFMS (Public Financial Management System). The minister emphasized the state's request to avoid delays in this process to ensure timely support for all pensioners.
Historical Context: Progressive Increase in Pension Support
The current state government has demonstrated a strong commitment to social welfare, having distributed a total of Rs 49,433.83 crore as welfare pensions to date. This represents a substantial increase compared to previous administrations.
- The first Pinarayi Vijayan government provided Rs 35,154 crore to pensioners
- The UDF government, which held power from 2011 to 2016, allocated Rs 9,011 crore
- During the UDF tenure, the welfare pension stood at Rs 600 per recipient
- The first and second Pinarayi governments have progressively increased this amount to the current Rs 2,000
Sustainable Financial Planning for Pension Distribution
Currently, approximately Rs 1,050 crore is being distributed monthly as pensions without any arrears, reflecting the government's efficient financial management. The annual requirement for welfare pension distribution has now reached Rs 14,500 crore.
Minister Balagopal confirmed that provisions for this substantial annual allocation have been included in the budget for the coming year as well, ensuring continuity and stability in this essential social security program that supports millions of Kerala residents.
