CAG finds lapses in old age pension scheme

Highlights Rs 15.72-cr irregularities in disbursal of the scheme; indicates the process of identification of beneficiaries was faulty

A Comptroller and Auditor General (Haryana) report has highlighted a Rs 15.72-cr irregularities in disbursal of old age pension scheme in the state.

The report indicates the process of identification of beneficiaries was faulty, with faults in the survey to find out persons eligible for the scheme.

The CAG audit revealed the beneficiaries under the old age samman scheme were not identified in accordance with the procedure prescribed. The allowances were granted to those not the residents of the state or who had not completed the age of 60 years and, hence, were not eligible.

There was a large number of complaints regarding the withdrawal of funds by ineligible persons. The re-verification by the social welfare department on the bais of these complaints revealed that 12,176 beneficiaries were either below the age of 60 or not the residents of the state.

They were paid an amount of Rs 15.72 cr between the period from July 1994 to March 2012.

The disbusement of allowances to persons who were also drawing pension under other schemes has been observed by CAG.

Under the scheme guidelines, the committees at different levels are required to receive and scrutinise the applications seeking grant of allowances. The record of applicants as well as proceedings of these committes was not maintained.

This restricted the verification of the genuineness of the applicants and selection of the beneficiaries.