New Delhi
The Centre’s Digital Life Certificate (DLC) Campaign 3.0 has issued over 77 lakh certificates across India, announced on Monday, easing the process for pensioners to confirm their eligibility for pensions. Launched on November 6, the campaign runs until November 30 in 800 cities and towns, with 1,575 camps set up to assist pensioners.
Advanced face recognition technology facilitated the creation of 24 lakh DLCs, accounting for 34% of the total certificates. This feature allows pensioners, especially the elderly, to complete the process from home or nearby bank branches.
Banks have played a key role in the campaign. SBI and PNB together issued over 9 lakh certificates, while Canara Bank and Central Bank of India contributed 1 lakh and 57,000 certificates, respectively. Maharashtra leads the states with over 10 lakh certificates, followed by Tamil Nadu and West Bengal with 6 lakh each. Uttar Pradesh has issued over 5 lakh DLCs. The campaign has deployed 1.8 lakh postmen to assist pensioners, ensuring accessibility in remote areas. Banks have also trained staff and equipped them with apps to aid pensioners, even making home visits for those unable to travel due to age or illness.
The initiative aligns with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of digital empowerment for pensioners. Collaborating agencies include pension-disbursing banks, the Department of Posts, UIDAI, and other government bodies. Efforts are underway to increase awareness about the DLC face authentication technique through banners and posters in banks, offices, and ATMs.
