TCS Extends SPARSH Collaboration, Revolutionizing Defence Pension System

26 Nov 2024 , 08:12 PM

Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) has extended its partnership with the System for Pension Administration – Raksha (SPARSH) for another three years. SPARSH is an initiative by the Indian government to streamline pension services for over 30 lakh retired defence personnel. The three-year contract will involve TCS maintaining both the hardware and software of the system while implementing updates to enhance operations.

SPARSH has significantly improved pension processing timelines, reducing them from 12–18 months to just 14 days, with payments for first-time pensioners now completed in 5–7 days. By eliminating service charges imposed by banks, the SPARSH program saves the government approximately ₹250 crore annually.

TCS has been involved with SPARSH since October 2020, delivering an integrated and secure pension disbursement solution. The system’s implementation includes the One Rank One Pension (OROP) scheme, ensuring equitable pension for defence personnel of the same rank and service length, irrespective of retirement date.

TCS highlighted its achievements in driving large-scale digital transformations for public services, ensuring efficiency, transparency, and timely benefits for millions of pensioners. Senior Vice President Tej Paul Bhatla emphasized TCS’s commitment to strengthening India’s core systems through cutting-edge technology and streamlined processes.