IndiaThe Kerala government has decided to transition entirely to the direct benefit transfer (DBT) method for distributing social security and welfare pensions, moving away from the direct-to-home (DTH) system through primary agricultural credit societies (PACS). This change follows a 2023 report by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) that highlighted issues with the DTH model, including potential fraud and improper payments, such as to deceased pensioners. The CAG emphasized that DTH payments via PACS did not meet the criteria for true DBT because they lacked direct account transfers and proper verification. The state has spent significant amounts annually on incentives for intermediaries involved in the DTH system, with over ₹34 crore spent in 2024-25 alone. The new policy aims to improve transparency and reduce administrative inefficiencies.
Bias read (Center): The article presents factual information about the government's policy shift based on a CAG audit and financial data, without overtly favoring any political ideology. It reports on both the challenges with the old system and the government's response, maintaining a balanced tone.
