Is Rajnath Singh Launching New Publications for Defence Accounts Transparency Tomorrow?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- New Publications: Launched to enhance transparency and modernisation.
- Annual Celebration: The Defence Accounts Department's 278th Annual Day will be celebrated.
- Raksha Mantri Awards: Recognition for excellence in defence accounting.
- SPARSH Integration: Most defence pensioners are now onboarded on SPARSH.
- Outreach Programs: Over 90 SPARSH outreach events held to assist veterans.
New Delhi, Sep 30 (NationPress) Defence Minister Rajnath Singh is set to unveil a collection of innovative publications on Wednesday, aimed at enhancing the institutional capabilities of the Controller General of Defence Accounts while advocating for modernisation and transparency, as per an official announcement.
Additionally, he will participate in the 278th Annual Day celebrations of the Defence Accounts Department in New Delhi, according to a statement from the Defence Ministry.
As part of the Ministry of Defence’s Year of Reforms initiatives, the Controller General of Defence Accounts is working to improve its service delivery.
“These publications reflect the Department’s unwavering commitment to modernisation, transparency, and providing enhanced support to the Defence Services,” the statement highlighted.
During the event, Rajnath Singh will also confer the Raksha Mantri Awards for Excellence 2025 to CGDA officials, acknowledging their exceptional contributions to vital departmental projects and reforms.
This ceremony will showcase the Department’s focus on innovation, professional excellence, and efficiency in defence financial management.
Earlier communications from the Ministry indicated that over 200 Defence Accounts Department (DAD) offices, 16 bank branches, and nearly 500,000 Common Service Centres (CSCs) are operational to assist pensioners.
In a March statement, it was claimed that out of 32 lakh defence pensioners, nearly 31 lakh have been integrated into the System for Pension Administration-Raksha (SPARSH), allowing their pensions to be directly deposited into their bank accounts.
Launched in October 2020, SPARSH is a ‘Digital India’ initiative designed to provide a comprehensive and efficient framework for managing defence pensions, including the sanctioning and disbursement of pensions for Armed Forces personnel and Defence civilians across the nation.
To assist veterans and their families, Raksha Pension Samadhan Ayojans (RPSA) are organised in various locations to address their concerns, as stated by the Ministry.
From January 2024 to December 2024, seven RPSAs were conducted nationwide.
Furthermore, more than 90 SPARSH outreach programmes were held by DAD during this period to support veterans and their families, the Ministry reported.
“Ex-servicemen and their families can also receive assistance and necessary information regarding their pensions by calling the PCDA (P) toll-free number 1800-180-5325, where trained staff are available to help. Since its inception in December 2014, over 50 lakh calls have been answered, providing vital assistance and information,” the Ministry mentioned in its statement.