Thiruvananthapuram, 24 June (H.S.):

The Kerala government is examining measures to make the distribution of welfare pensions for Non-Resident Keralites (NRKs) more efficient, Chief Minister V.D. Satheesan informed the Assembly.

Responding to concerns over delays in processing pension applications, the Chief Minister said a large number of applications received by the Kerala Pravasi Welfare Board up to January 2026 remain pending, while applications submitted after that period have not yet been acted upon. He acknowledged that the backlog has become a matter of concern and assured the House that steps are being considered to improve the system.

Satheesan said the government is reviewing various proposals aimed at strengthening the delivery of welfare pensions and ensuring timely benefits for eligible beneficiaries. He reiterated that the Kerala Pravasi Welfare Board was established to provide social security and welfare support to expatriate Malayalis and to coordinate welfare schemes for the global Malayali community.

At present, expatriate Malayalis between the ages of 18 and 60 are eligible to become members of the welfare fund. Members who continue to make regular contributions until they become eligible for pension benefits are entitled to receive assistance under the scheme, he said.

According to figures available up to May 2026, the welfare fund has around 9.5 lakh members and 94,666 pensioners. The minimum monthly pension is ₹3,500 for members residing abroad and ₹3,000 for those working in other Indian states as well as return migrants.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the procedures related to the annual submission of life certificates, which pension beneficiaries are required to furnish every March. Those unable to appear in person may submit certificates attested by a gazetted officer within India or by an official of an Indian Embassy if residing overseas.

Recognising the difficulties faced by pensioners abroad in obtaining embassy certification, the Welfare Board has permitted the acceptance of life certificates sent through the personal email accounts of overseas directors.

Satheesan further said the government would examine proposals to extend the interval for submitting life certificates and to allow certificates issued by elected representatives to be accepted for pension verification purposes.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman