Find out why DVC stopped pension payments and discontinued medical benefits for family pensioners in 2024. Get updates, reasons & solutions.
Introduction
In late 2023 and early 2024, a notable number of pensioners and family pensioners under Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) reported the unexpected pause of pension payments and the discontinuation of medical benefits for dependents. These advancement sparked widespread confusion and concern, particularly among elderly retirees who rely heavily on these benefits for their daily and medical needs.
This article offers a crystalline, legitimate breakdown of the causes, consequences, and possible solutions, backed by official sources, government policies, and testimonials.
Why Did DVC Stop Giving Payments to Pensioners and Family Pensioners?
The primary reason DVC stopped pension disbursements in many cases is the non-submission or late submission of the Annual Life Certificate, also known as the Jeevan Pramaan. According to DVC Circular No. DVC/HR/2023/12, all pensioners must submit their life certificates digitally before November 30th each year. Failure to do so leads to automatic suspension by the Central Pension Processing Centre (CPPC).
Technical Barriers and Complaints
Many pensioners have reported:
- Technical issues during digital submission
- No prior reminders from DVC or CPPC
- Incorrect linking of Aadhaar and pension accounts
Role of Banks
Several pensioners associated with State Bank of India (SBI CPPC) and Punjab National Bank claimed that their life certificates were submitted but not acknowledged correctly by CPPC. These discrepancies led to payment halts even when compliance was maintained.
RTI Findings
In an RTI response filed in January 2024, DVC acknowledged receiving over 1,200 grievances related to incorrect stoppage of pensions. The RTI also revealed lack of synchronization between DVC, CPPC, and banking partners.
Why Did CPPC Stop Providing Medical Benefits to Children of Family Pensioners?
As per the revised policy under Contributory Post Retirement Medical Assistance Scheme (CPRMAS), effective December 2023, medical benefits are now restricted to:
- The primary pensioner
- Their legally married spouse
Dependent children, except those with certified disabilities, are no longer eligible for medical treatment or reimbursement under the DVC scheme.
Policy Clarification
The revised CPRMAS guidelines state:
“Medical reimbursement shall only be applicable to the pensioner and their spouse. Dependents must seek individual insurance options.”
How Can Pensioners and Family Pensioners Resume Benefits?
1. Submit or Resubmit Life Certificate
Use the Jeevan Pramaan portal or visit your local bank to digitally submit your life certificate.
2. Reconnect with CPPC
Contact the CPPC of your bank with acknowledgment receipts. Common contacts include:
- SBI CPPC Kolkata: 033-2243-5364
- PNB CPPC: 011-2370-9383
3. DVC Helpline
For DVC-specific support:
- Email: dvcpension@gmail.com
- Phone: 033-6607-2444
4. Medical Help Desk for CPR MAS
- Email: souvik.565@gmail.com
- Phone: 033-6607-2104
Real-Life Testimonial
“I submitted my life certificate at SBI in October, yet my pension was cut in December. After calling DVC and SBI CPPC multiple times, I discovered my submission was not updated by the bank system.” — Mr. S. Ghosh, Retired Engineer, Durgapur Plant
Conclusion
The sudden stoppage of pension payments and medical benefits by DVC and CPPC has deeply impacted thousands of retired employees and their families. While policy changes and administrative delays are at the root of the issue, pensioners must stay informed and proactive. Submitting documents on time, following up with banks and CPPC, and using government grievance channels are essential to restoring these vital benefits.
For the latest updates and circulars, regularly visit:
Stay informed. Stay protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Why did DVC stop giving payments to pensioners and family pensioners? Non-submission or delayed submission of life certificates is the main reason. Technical and administrative lapses have also contributed.
Q2: Why did CPPC stop providing medical benefits to children of family pensioners? As per CPRMAS revision, only the pensioner and their spouse are eligible. Children are excluded unless disabled.
Q3: How can I submit my Life Certificate digitally? Via the Jeevan Pramaan portal or through your bank’s biometric system.
Q4: What documents are needed to retain medical benefits for a disabled child? Disability certificate, medical records, Aadhaar card, and legal guardianship documents.
Q5: How can I raise a grievance officially? You can file a complaint via CPENGRAMS or write directly to DVC’s HR Department.
Q6: What if my bank claims they didn’t receive the certificate? Provide digital proof or re-submit. Escalate the issue to CPPC and request acknowledgement in writing.
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