The federal government has introduced a digital system for pension payments and proof-of-life verification for retired employees.
The new system replaces the previous paper-based procedure.
The move follows a directive from Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif.
The Ministry of Finance has issued revised Standard Operating Procedures for pension payments and verification.
NADRA to Handle Digital Pension Verification
Under the new system, the National Database and Registration Authority (NADRA) will connect pensioners’ records with the Controller General of Accounts (CGA) and Military Accountant General.
NADRA will send digital proof-of-life signals directly to the relevant departments.
Pensioners will also be able to complete verification through the Pak-ID mobile application.
Biometric verification and proof-of-life certification through private banks will no longer be required.
New System Covers Federal Pensioners
The revised procedure applies to retired federal government employees.
It also covers pensioners living abroad who receive their pensions in Pakistan.
Under the new arrangement, private banks will mainly handle pension disbursements.
Pension payments will be transferred directly into designated bank accounts through the electronic payment system.
Paper-Based Pension System Abolished
The Ministry of Finance has abolished the previous paper-based pension payment process.
Alternative verification facilities will be available through NADRA centers, mobile units, facilitation franchises and district offices.
Forms 10, 11 and 12 will continue to be used when manual verification is necessary.
A separate form has also been introduced for pensioners living abroad.
Six-Month Rule for Missing Verification
The revised procedure also changes how pension accounts are treated when proof of life is not received.
A pension account will not become inactive simply because it is used for pension payments.
However, if NADRA does not send a digital proof-of-life signal for six months, pension payments may be temporarily suspended.
The account itself will not be classified as inactive under this process.
Bank Branches to Support NADRA Verification
Bank branches will now serve as NADRA verification centers under the new arrangement.
Accounts closed before August 22 can be restored after biometric verification or verification through a NADRA center.
The direct payment system will also support the restoration of such accounts from September.
Government Seeks Faster and More Transparent Pension Payments
The revised system was developed in consultation with relevant government institutions.
Officials said the changes are aimed at simplifying pension verification.
The digital process is also intended to reduce dependence on private banks for verification.
The government expects the new system to improve transparency, efficiency and convenience for federal pensioners.
