The Pakistani government has initiated comprehensive reforms to revolutionize the pension disbursement system for retired civil servants living abroad. The Ministry of Finance, in partnership with the Controller General of Accounts and the Accountant General Pakistan Revenues, is addressing long-standing challenges that have plagued the pension system for overseas retirees.
Digital Transformation of Pension Management
The Finance Division is implementing significant improvements to the pension and General Provident Fund management systems. Central to these reforms is the enhancement of data integration between various autonomous bodies and the AGPR system. This improved coordination will streamline pension processing for employees on deputation who currently operate under separate pension contribution mechanisms.
The ministry plans to develop a robust unified tracking system that will securely maintain pension histories and ensure accurate transfer of contributions. This initiative particularly focuses on improving disbursement for employees of abolished or merged government entities through smoother administrative processes.
Biometric Verification for Overseas Pensioners
The National Database and Registration Authority is developing a dedicated online platform featuring biometric and facial-recognition technology. This innovative system will enable Pakistani retirees residing anywhere in the world to submit their proof-of-life certificates remotely, eliminating the cumbersome requirement of traveling to Pakistan for physical verification.
The platform, currently in its final development stages, is expected to launch in the near future. It will significantly reduce inconvenience for pensioners and help ensure timely, uninterrupted disbursement of pension benefits.
Banking System Synchronization
The State Bank of Pakistan has received instructions to collaborate closely with commercial banks to synchronize their systems with the proposed online application. This coordination will guarantee the smooth flow of pension payments to overseas retirees while simplifying account opening and verification procedures.
The Finance Division has emphasized prioritizing cases of employees approaching retirement or superannuation, particularly concerning leave encashment and GPF withdrawals. Measures are being implemented to fully safeguard the rights and entitlements of all pensioners during this transitional period.
These reforms represent the government's broader commitment to modernizing Pakistan's public sector pension system and providing enhanced services to pensioners regardless of their geographical location.
