New application of an octogenarian for additional pension

An octogenarian again requested the government to sanction additional pension for state government pensioners above 80 years as per central government rates.

MJ Antony, an 88-year-old pensioner from Pattom in the state capital, met the chief minister in July and sought the grant of additional pension for all state government pensioners above 80 years, paid to retired central government employees. Despite the Chief Minister’s assurance, the Pension Welfare Cell of the Finance Ministry rejected Mr. Antony’s request citing the current financial situation of the state.

In a plea seeking a review of the Government’s decision, Mr. Antony along with P. Balakrishna Pillai, former general secretary of the KSEB Pensioners’ Union, pointed out that the VI. The Central Pay Commission has recommended supplementary pensions starting from 20% of the basic pension for those who reach the age of 80 and up to 100% of the basic pension for those who touch 100 years. Other state governments have sanctioned supplementary pension at central rates, but Kerala governments themselves have ignored the demand for the last 17 years.

The Kerala Pay Revision Commission of 2009 recommended only 5% additional pension after 80 years and an increase to 50% after 100 years, but even this meager recommendation was not accepted by the state government.

As per the Kerala Pay Revision Commission’s 2019 recommendations, pensioners were only allowed a “special care allowance” of ₹1,000 per month on reaching the age of 80 instead of additional pension as per central rates, Mr. Antony pointed out.

The Supreme Court also ruled in DS Nakara vs. Union of India that pension is a socio-economic justice measure providing relief in advancing age. It was not a reward, but the right to a dignified life in old age.

Governments in the state have spent hugely on various demands but have ignored about 20,000 state pensioners aged 80 and above. Alleging that Keralam was looking for excuses to deny their claims, he said he hoped that his petition to the Department of Senior Citizens would reach the Chief Minister and be considered favourably.

Published – 31 Oct 2026 22:21 IST