Include unmarried /widow /divorcee sister in the definition of family for family pension: Item No. 20/19/SC Standing Committee Meeting

Include unmarried /widow /divorcee sister in the definition of family for family pension: Item No. 20/19/SC Standing Committee Meeting

AGENDA DISCUSSED DURING THE STANDING COMMITTEE MEETING HELD ON 26.2.2021 – DECISIONS TAKEN

A. Unresolved Items of the Earlier SCM held on 7.3.2019

Item Nos. and Ministry / Deptt.:  Item No. 20/19/SC D/o Pension & PW

Subject: Include unmarried /widow /divorcee sister in the definition of family for family pension.

The request is for those cases where the brother is unmarried and has no family other than sister.

Decision in the Meeting of 7.3.2019: Earlier, Department of Pension & PW has informed through their letter that no decision was taken in the National Council (JCM) to reconsider the issue. Hence, there does not appear to be any fresh ground to reconsider this decision and the item may be closed. Staff Side stated that the issue needs to be reviewed, and especially in case of mentally retarded children.

JS(DOE) suggested that instead of clubbing other categories, a fresh representation relating to mentally retarded adult children may be sent, so the issue could be examined.

Status as on 25.02.2021: Department of Pension & PW informed through their letter dated 23.02.2021 the matter was deliberated upon and Staff Side wanted this issue to be re-considered. Chairman advised DoP&PW to re-consider the same. Accordingly, the issue has been re-examined in this Department in consultation with Department of Expenditure and are of the view that the disabled sibling were covered under the scope of Family Pension because physically or mentally they are not in a position to earn their livelihood. Which may not be the case with unmarried /divorced/widowed sister.

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In view of this, the demand of the Staff Side National Council (JCM) has not been considered. Hence, there may be no change in the present position and status-quo may be maintained.

Discussions/Decision on 26.02.2021: The Ministry of Health & FW will examine this matter afresh.