Daijiworld Media Network - New Delhi
New Delhi, Nov 2: Pensioners covered under the Unified Pension Scheme (UPS) can now submit their annual Life Certificates digitally through Aadhaar-based face authentication, eliminating the need to visit pension offices or bank branches for the process.
The Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) has introduced the UPS Jeewan Setu – Digital Life Certificate facility through the NPS by Protean eGov mobile application. The initiative aims to simplify annual compliance for UPS pensioners and ensure the uninterrupted continuation of their monthly assured pension payments.
PFRDA announced the facility through a circular dated October 30, stating that eligible pensioners can generate and submit their Digital Life Certificates using Aadhaar-based authentication through the mobile application.
A Life Certificate serves as proof that a pensioner is alive and continues to meet the eligibility requirements for receiving pension payments. Its timely submission is necessary for pension disbursing authorities to continue releasing monthly payments.
Under the newly introduced facility, pensioners can complete the process from their homes using the NPS by Protean eGov application. The system uses Aadhaar authentication, including face verification, to establish the pensioner's identity. Once authentication is successful, the application generates the Digital Life Certificate, which is validated through Aadhaar.
To use the facility, pensioners must first download or open the NPS by Protean eGov mobile application and select the 'UPS Jeewan Setu – Digital Life Certificate' option on the home screen. They must then enter their Permanent Retirement Account Number (PRAN) and date of birth and verify the details using the one-time password (OTP) sent to their registered mobile number.
After completing the initial verification, pensioners must select the Aadhaar option, enter their Aadhaar number and click on 'Continue with Aadhaar'. They can then choose face authentication and complete the verification process. Once authentication is successful, the application generates the Life Certificate. Pensioners should check for the confirmation message indicating successful generation and click on 'Done' to complete the process.
Pensioners are advised to ensure that their PRAN, date of birth and registered mobile number details are accurate before starting the procedure. They should also complete the Aadhaar authentication process carefully to avoid delays.
The annual deadline for submitting the UPS Life Certificate is November 30. PFRDA has stressed that pensioners must complete the exercise within the stipulated period to ensure that their monthly assured pension payments continue without interruption.
The digital facility is expected to particularly benefit elderly pensioners and those who face difficulties travelling to pension offices, banks or other designated centres. Those who have not yet generated their certificates can use the new mobile application facility or seek assistance from their respective pension service providers.