The Jeevan Pramaan Patra is a groundbreaking initiative designed to simplify the life certification process for senior citizens in India. It is a digital life certificate based on Aadhaar and biometric authentication. It eliminates the need for pensioners to appear in person before the Pension Disbursing Officer (PDO) to prove their existence.
This initiative offers convenience, especially for elderly pensioners, as the entire process is digital and instantly accessible to the Pension Disbursing Agency (PDA). Below is a detailed overview of how Jeevan Pramaan Patra works, its features, and the provisions for pensioners facing difficulties.
Key Features of Jeevan Pramaan Patra (DLC)
Aadhaar-Based Authentication
Jeevan Pramaan Patra is created using the pensioner’s Aadhaar number and biometric data. This ensures authenticity and eliminates the possibility of fraudulent claims.
Digital Submission
Pensioners no longer need to visit their banks, post offices, or other offices to submit their life certificates. The DLC can be submitted online or through designated service providers.
Unique Pramaan ID
Each DLC is assigned a distinct Pramaan ID, making it easy to track and verify.
Doorstep Services
Many banks now offer doorstep banking services to assist senior citizens in submitting their DLCs. This is especially helpful for pensioners who are unable to travel.
Particular Window for Senior Pensioners
Pensioners aged 80 years and above can submit their life certificates starting from October 1 each year. This early submission window ensures they avoid the general rush, and the certificates remain valid until November 30 of the following year.
DLC Submission for Pensioners with Serious Illness or Incapacitation
For pensioners who are seriously ill or incapacitated, specific provisions ensure they can submit their life certificates without undue difficulty:
Face Authentication Technology
Pensioners can use face authentication technology to submit their DLCs. This method allows them to verify their identity from the comfort of their homes.
Medical Certificate and Officer Assistance
If the pensioner cannot use biometric or face authentication, they can submit a medical certificate issued by a registered medical practitioner. The certificate and an intimation letter should be sent to the Pension Account Holding Branch (PAHB). The PAHB will then appoint an officer to visit the pensioner at their residence or hospital to record the life certificate.
Authorized Signatories
In some cases, pensioners can submit a life certificate signed by any of the following authorized individuals:
- A Magistrate under the Criminal Procedure Code
- A Registrar or Sub-Registrar under the Indian Registration Act
- A Class-I Officer of the Reserve Bank of India
- A Police Officer not below the rank of Sub-Inspector
- A Postmaster, Sub-Postmaster, or Inspector of Post Offices
- A Block Development Officer, Tehsildar, or Naib Tehsildar
- Members of Parliament or State Legislatures
- A Justice of the Peace or Treasury Officer
Doorstep Banking Services
Major public sector banks like SBI, Canara Bank, Punjab National Bank (PNB), and Bank of India offer doorstep services for submitting DLCs. Here’s what you need to know:
- Charges: The service may involve a nominal fee, which varies by bank.
- Booking: Pensioners can request the service through their bank’s website, mobile app, or customer care.
Why Jeevan Pramaan Matters
The Jeevan Pramaan Patra initiative streamlines the process of life certification for pensioners, offering the following benefits:
- Convenience
Pensioners can submit their life certificates without physically visiting banks or post offices. This is especially helpful for those with mobility issues or remote areas.
- Instant Processing
DLCs are instantly shared with the Pension Disbursing Agency, speeding up the process and ensuring timely disbursal of pensions.
- Transparency and Security
Aadhaar-based authentication and biometric verification eliminate fraudulent claims, ensuring pensions reach the rightful beneficiaries.
- Inclusivity
Special provisions, such as face authentication and officer visits, ensure that even incapacitated pensioners can fulfill life certificate requirements.
Conclusion
The Jeevan Pramaan Patra is a transformative step toward improving the lives of pensioners by making the life certification process hassle-free, secure, and accessible. Its digital nature saves time and effort while ensuring transparency in pension disbursement.
The initiative provides multiple alternatives for senior citizens, especially those with limited mobility or severe illnesses, from face authentication technology to doorstep services and officer assistance.
By leveraging technology, Jeevan Pramaan ensures dignity and convenience for India’s pensioners, reaffirming the government’s commitment to senior citizens’ welfare.