MoD Signs MoUs to Expand SPARSH Service Centers

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has taken a significant step towards enhancing pensioner services by forging partnerships with four prominent banks. These Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) aim to establish SPARSH service centers, leveraging the System for Pension Administration (RAKSHA), across 1,128 branches nationwide. SPARSH, a web-based system, facilitates streamlined pension processing and direct crediting to defense pensioners’ bank accounts.

Enhancing Pensioner Access

The MoUs with Bank of India, Canara Bank, Central Bank of India, and Utkarsh Small Finance Bank mark a strategic move to extend last-mile connectivity to pensioners, particularly those in remote areas lacking technical infrastructure. These SPARSH service centers will serve as pivotal points for pensioners, offering assistance in profile updates, grievance registration, digital annual identification, data verification, and access to detailed pension information.

Cost-Free Accessibility

Pensioners can access these service centers free of charge, with nominal service fees covered by the Defence Accounts Department (DAD). This initiative aims to ensure seamless and affordable access to SPARSH services, fostering efficiency and transparency in managing defense pensions.

Widespread Reach

With these partnerships, SPARSH services will now be accessible through over 26,000 branches across 15 banks nationwide. This extensive network complements the existing infrastructure, which includes 199 dedicated DAD srvice centers and over 3.75 lakh common service centers, reinforcing the Ministry of Defence’s commitment to comprehensive pensioner support.