THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Starting next Tuesday, two installments of welfare pension will be distributed, with each installment amounting to 3200. Last month, one installment was already disbursed. For individuals who have provided their bank account details, the pension will be delivered directly to their homes, while others will receive it through cooperative societies.

Additionally, the state has allocated the central government's share of 6.88 lakh. Kerala is issuing this payment in advance to address the situation where the central government has been responsible for paying the pension share since April of last year. There were arrears of seven months, one installment of which was paid last month. Even with two more installments being disbursed now, there are still outstanding pensions for five months, including that of April.

This government action follows widespread criticism over the delayed distribution of welfare pensions. During discussions, members of the Left Front, including the CPI, expressed concerns that delaying pension payments could negatively impact the upcoming elections. The state government attributed the crisis to the central government, explaining that the delay in pension distribution is due to a lack of funds allocation from the Center. Following criticism from the CPI during the LDF meeting, the Chief Minister pledged to expedite the pension payments.