Digital Life Certificates: A Milestone for Pensioners
The introduction of the Digital Life Certificate (DLC) has marked a significant advancement in the lives of pensioners and elderly citizens in India. The ongoing campaign, known as “DLC 3.0,” has successfully crossed the remarkable milestone of one crore certificates issued. This initiative aims to simplify the process for pensioners, making it easier for them to access their benefits without unnecessary hurdles. Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh announced this achievement, emphasizing its importance in enhancing the quality of life for senior citizens. The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi‘s vision of digital empowerment, as highlighted in his recent address during the “Mann Ki Baat” program.
The Significance of Digital Life Certificates
Digital Life Certificates serve as a vital tool for pensioners, ensuring that they can receive their pensions without the need for physical verification. Traditionally, pensioners had to visit banks or government offices to prove their existence, which could be a cumbersome process, especially for the elderly. With the introduction of DLC, this process has been streamlined. The certificates can now be generated digitally, reducing the need for physical travel and paperwork.
Prime Minister Modi, during the 116th episode of “Mann Ki Baat,” praised the initiative, stating that it has made life simpler for the elderly. He noted that over 80 lakh people have already benefited from this digital solution, with more than 2 lakh of them being over 80 years old. This shift towards digital solutions not only empowers the elderly but also encourages them to become more tech-savvy, bridging the gap between technology and the older generation.
Campaign 3.0: A Nationwide Effort
Launched by Dr. Jitendra Singh from the National Media Center in New Delhi, the DLC Campaign 3.0 is a nationwide initiative running from November 1 to November 30, 2024. The campaign spans 800 cities and towns across India, with 1,984 camps organized to facilitate the issuance of Digital Life Certificates. Over 1.8 lakh postmen have been deployed to assist in this effort, ensuring that the initiative reaches even the most remote areas.
The campaign has seen a remarkable response, with over 100 lakh DLCs generated by November 26, 2024. Notably, more than 30% of these certificates were issued through face authentication, showcasing a 202-fold increase in the use of this technology compared to previous campaigns. The government has also organized five mega camps in major cities, including Delhi, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad, to further promote the initiative and engage with pensioners directly.
Positive Feedback from Pensioners
The response from pensioners and their welfare associations has been overwhelmingly positive. Many have expressed that the Digital Life Certificate is a significant step towards easing their lives, particularly for those who are elderly, disabled, or hospitalized. The convenience of obtaining a DLC without the need for physical presence at banks or government offices has been a game-changer for many.
Dr. Jitendra Singh highlighted that this achievement reflects the Government of India’s commitment to leveraging digital tools for the benefit of every pensioner. The collaborative efforts of various stakeholders, including pension disbursing banks, the Department of Pensions and Pensioners Welfare, and other government departments, have been crucial in realizing this vision. The DLC initiative not only simplifies the process for pensioners but also aligns with the broader goal of digital empowerment in the country.
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