New technology achievements have led to a significant rise in the submission of Digital Life Certificates (DLCs) by retirees under the Employee Pension Scheme (EPS). Reports from the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation (EPFO) indicate a notable increase in the use of Facial Authentication Technology for this purpose, showcasing a sharp user adoption rate.
In the financial year 2023-24, retirees successfully submitted a staggering 6.6 lakh life certificates digitally, utilizing Facial Authentication Technology. This number stands in stark contrast to the 2.1 lakh submissions in the prior year, marking a threefold increase.
The innovative approach enables pensioners to validate their identity via a facial scan using their smartphones. This circumvents the need to physically visit banks or postal offices, by authenticating against the Aadhaar database directly from the comfort of their homes. Criteria for this verification process are stringent, requiring Aadhaar-linked phone numbers for operator authentication.
Particularly during the last financial year, the EPFO received an approximate total of 60 lakh DLCs, with nearly 10% accounted for by the facial scan-based submissions. This technological convenience requires installing ‘Aadhaar Face RD’ and ‘Jeevan Pramaan’ apps on users’ smartphones, providing clear instructions for completing the face scans accurately.
The EPFO, which caters to more than 78 lakh pensioners, has made concerted efforts to encourage the adoption of this method since its software integration in July 2022. Supplementing these measures, EPFO has also disseminated a detailed instructional video across its social media channels to aid pensioners in the transition. This step-by-step guide is aimed to further streamline the process and empower more users to leverage the comfort of submitting life certificates digitally.
Importance of Digital Life Certificates
Digital Life Certificates (DLCs) are an important administrative requirement for retirees to continue receiving pension benefits without interruption. DLCs serve as proof of existence for pensioners, ensuring that the pension disbursal is to the right beneficiary.
Expanded Use of Facial Authentication
The adoption of Facial Authentication Technology indicates a digitization trend within government processes, reflecting broader efforts to promote e-governance. This move aligns with the push for more inclusive services that can be accessed by individuals who may face mobility issues or other barriers that make it difficult to visit physical locations.
Key Challenges and Controversies
- Data Privacy and Security: The use of biometric data, such as facial recognition, raises concerns about personal data protection and privacy. It’s essential that robust measures are in place to safeguard the information against misuse and breaches.
- Technology Accessibility: There may be concerns over whether all pensioners have access to the required technology, such as smartphones capable of accurate facial recognition and internet connectivity.
- Digital Literacy: The effective use of such technology requires a certain level of digital literacy. Retirees who aren’t familiar with digital tools may face difficulties adopting this method.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The main advantages of submitting Digital Life Certificates via facial authentication are:
- Convenience: Pensioners can complete the process without needing to travel, which is particularly beneficial to those with mobility challenges or those living in remote areas.
- Efficiency: Streamlines the certificate submission process, reducing the administrative burden on pensioners and the managing organizations.
- Safety: During situations such as a pandemic, this minimizes the risk of exposure to illness for the vulnerable retiree population.
Conversely, the disadvantages include:
- Digital Divide: It may alienate retirees who lack access to smartphones or the internet, potentially exacerbating inequality.
- Technical Issues: Glitches or inaccuracies in facial recognition technology can lead to frustration and delays in pensioners receiving their dues.
- Resistance to Change: Some retirees might be resistant to adopting new technology, preferring traditional methods of submission.
For more information related to pension and retirement services, you may visit the Employees’ Provident Fund Organisation and for details on government-supported digital initiatives, refer to the Digital India program.
It’s important that while embracing technological advances like facial authentication for pension-related services, authorities also address the potential challenges and work towards making such platforms accessible and secure for all retirees.