Thiruvananthapuram, 25 Feb (H.S.):The Kerala government will begin the distribution of social security and welfare fund pensions for the month of February from today, covering nearly 62 lakh beneficiaries across the State. Each eligible person will receive ₹2,000 under the monthly pension scheme.

Officials said 26.62 lakh beneficiaries who have furnished their bank account details will receive the pension amount directly through bank transfers. For others, the payment will be delivered at their homes through cooperative societies to ensure smooth and timely disbursal. Beneficiaries enrolled under various Welfare Fund Boards will receive their pensions through the respective boards.

Even though the Centre’s share under the National Pension System (NPS) for 8.46 lakh beneficiaries has not yet been released, the State government has taken steps to ensure that payments are not delayed. The Finance Department has made alternative arrangements to prevent any interruption in pension distribution.

Finance Minister K.N. Balagopal said the LDF government has so far distributed ₹49,433.83 crore as welfare pensions. Of this, ₹35,154 crore was disbursed during the first Pinarayi Vijayan-led government. In contrast, the previous UDF government, which ruled from 2011 to 2016, distributed ₹9,011 crore towards welfare pensions.

The Minister also pointed out that the pension amount, which stood at ₹600 during the UDF period, was gradually increased in phases to ₹2,000 under the LDF government. He reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring that pensions are paid every month without arrears.

The social security pension scheme remains a vital support system for elderly citizens, widows, persons with disabilities, and other vulnerable sections. With distribution set to begin today, the government aims to provide financial stability and reassurance to lakhs of families who depend on this assistance for their daily needs.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman