DEHRADUN: In a significant welfare initiative, Chief Minister Pushkar Singh Dhami on Sunday transferred ₹140 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 9.4 lakh beneficiaries under various pension schemes through the DBT pension transfer to beneficiaries mechanism. The transfer was carried out at a programme held at the Chief Minister’s Camp Office and covered pension payments for the month of December, reinforcing the state government’s focus on transparency and timely delivery of social security benefits.
Our correspondent reports that a total of 9,43,964 beneficiaries received their pension amounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer system. These beneficiaries include senior citizens, widows, persons with disabilities and other eligible individuals registered under pension schemes administered by the Social Welfare Department. Officials said the DBT pension transfer to beneficiaries ensured that funds reached recipients directly, eliminating the role of intermediaries and reducing delays.
Addressing the gathering, Chief Minister Dhami said that the primary objective of his government is to ensure that welfare benefits reach the rightful beneficiaries in a dignified and hassle-free manner. He said the adoption of DBT pension transfer to beneficiaries has strengthened trust in governance by ensuring that financial assistance reaches people without leakages or administrative obstacles.
“Our commitment is to ensure that every eligible citizen receives their pension on time. Through the DBT system, we are making governance more transparent and efficient, ensuring that support reaches people directly,” the Chief Minister said.
Officials present at the event said that pension payments were released under multiple schemes designed to support vulnerable sections of society. These include old age pensions, widow pensions and disability pensions, which provide crucial financial support to individuals who depend on government assistance for basic needs.
The Chief Minister said that technology-driven governance has played a key role in improving the effectiveness of welfare delivery. He added that DBT pension transfer to beneficiaries has not only reduced administrative costs but has also empowered beneficiaries by giving them direct access to funds through their bank accounts.
He further directed officials to intensify efforts to identify and enrol all eligible persons who are still outside the pension framework. Emphasis, he said, should be placed on rural and remote areas where awareness and access to government schemes may be limited.
“No eligible person should be deprived of their rightful pension due to lack of information or procedural hurdles. We are continuously simplifying processes so that social security reaches every deserving citizen,” Dhami said.
Our correspondent adds that department officials informed that periodic verification of beneficiary data is being carried out to keep records updated. This process ensures that newly eligible persons are added to the pension list in a timely manner while maintaining accuracy and preventing duplication.
Beneficiaries welcomed the DBT pension transfer to beneficiaries, saying it has reduced the need to visit government offices or banks repeatedly. Several pensioners said that direct credit into bank accounts has brought convenience and a sense of security, especially for elderly and disabled individuals.
Social welfare advocates also praised the initiative, stating that DBT has significantly improved transparency in pension disbursement. According to them, direct transfers help prevent misuse of funds and ensure accountability in public spending.
The Chief Minister said that the state government plans to further expand the scope of DBT pension transfer to beneficiaries by integrating additional welfare schemes under the digital platform. Officials indicated that efforts are underway to streamline other social security programmes, making benefit delivery faster and more efficient.
The initiative forms part of the government’s broader strategy to strengthen financial inclusion and promote digital governance. By leveraging technology, the administration aims to ensure that welfare benefits are delivered promptly, transparently and equitably.
Our correspondent reports that the successful transfer of ₹140 crore to over 9.4 lakh beneficiaries highlights the growing reliance on digital systems for public service delivery. As the government continues to refine welfare mechanisms, the focus remains on inclusivity, accountability and timely support for those who rely on state assistance.
The DBT pension transfer to beneficiaries, officials said, reflects the government’s commitment to social justice and responsive governance, ensuring that pensioners receive financial support without delay and with dignity.
Dheeraj reports on governance, public services, jobs, and regional developments across Uttarakhand. He specialises in recruitment news, public-sector updates, and civic issues that impact everyday citizens. His reporting brings accuracy, context, and a grassroots perspective to local journalism.
