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Despite these challenges, the Raksha Mantri Award for Excellence was awarded in 2022 to CGDA and PCDA(P) for developing and implementing SPARSH, and in 2024 to PCDA(P) for achieving a milestone in redressing grievances (30 lakh linked). Yet, many grievances remain unresolved or are forwarded to Record Offices, some pending over a year, while 50% of veterans still can’t access pensions in 2025 due to delays and glitches.

Lt. Col. Ranjan Kumar, OIC DPCC PCDA(P) Prayagraj, revealed in an October 19, 2024, presentation at Surya Auditorium, Lucknow (posted by MP-5 AG’s Br) that during SPARSH’s 2023 migration, about 6.5 lakh pensioners (25%) were left with unresolved ‘As-Is’ issues: Pension Payment Orders (PPOs) not generated, Additional Age Pensions delayed even after date-of-birth updates, incorrect pension types, difficulties processing family pensions, and unpaid arrears. Despite MoD directing CGDA to fix this, veterans continue to suffer.  

Journalist @manaman_chhina

 tweeted on March 17, 2025, ‘What a shame! Giving award for an abject failure like SPARSH!’—echoing our pain and the mockery of these awards for a system failing our heroes who sacrifice their lives for India’s safety and integrity.

We Demand 

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Immediate action by MoD and PMO to fix SPARSH, ensuring pension access for all ex-servicemen, especially aged, non-tech, and rural veterans.

An immediate audit by the Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) to uncover the truth behind SPARSH’s failures and recommend solutions.

Reinforce PCDA(P) with resources, 24/7 support, and Armed Forces technocrats to resolve delays and glitches.

Allow pre-2016, over-60, and family pensioners to opt out of SPARSH and revert to bank payments.