Rs. 812 Crore Sanctioned for October Social Security Pensions in Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala Finance Minister K. N. Balagopal announced that the distribution of welfare and social security pensions for the month of October will commence on October 27. The state government has sanctioned Rs. 812 crore.

A total of 62 lakh beneficiaries across various categories—including old age, widow, disability, agricultural workers and other welfare fund pensions—will receive Rs. 1,600 each. Of these, the pension amount will be credited directly to the bank accounts of 26.62 lakh beneficiaries, while the remaining recipients will be paid through cooperative banks at their homes.

Mr. Balagopal said that 8.46 lakh beneficiaries under the National Pension Scheme are entitled to the Union Government’s contribution. However, to avoid delay in disbursal, the State has advanced Rs. 24.21 crore in anticipation of the Union Government's share. The Union Government share will be credited to beneficiaries’ bank accounts through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS).

Since the Left Democratic Front (LDF) government came to the power in 2016, welfare pensions in the State have witnessed several rounds of increment. The pension amount, which stood at Rs. 600 in 2016, was increased to Rs. 1,000 in the first LDF term and later raised to Rs. 1,600 during the present term. The government has also taken steps to ensure regular monthly distribution and direct credit to bank accounts to enhance transparency and efficiency.

According to official data, the State has so far spent Rs. 43,653 crore on the distribution of social security and welfare pensions, reflecting its continued emphasis on social protection measures despite fiscal constraints.

Minister Balagopal also noted that Kerala’s welfare pension model remains one of the most comprehensive in the country, ensuring financial support for millions of elderly, women, and people with disabilities.