Central govt pensioners will get LTC benefit like serving employees?

Financial Express: Central govt pensioners will get LTC benefit like serving employees? Here’s what Centre says

The Centre has acknowledged the demand for granting LTC to pensioners every 4 years. The suggestions are on record for appropriate action The central government has come out with a formal statement for the first time on a letter written to the Finance Ministry in January this year. In that letter, the Defense Accounts Pensioners Welfare Association demanded from the government “All India LTC” facility for pensioners once every four years. It was said in the letter that retired employees should get an opportunity to meet family and friends in different parts of the country and travel to new places.

On this, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT), under the Ministry of Personnel, Public Grievances and Pensions, has now responded saying that “the proposed suggestions have been taken on record and necessary action will be taken

This response may not be the final decision, but it shows that the government is seriously considering the demands of pensioners.

What is LTC and who gets it?

LTC is a travel allowance facility given to central government employees. Under this, they can travel to their hometown or any place in India at the government’s expense.

Usually, employees can travel twice in a block of four years. One travel to hometown and once to any place in the country is allowed. The travel expenses (rail/airfare) are borne by the government.

But after retirement this facility is stopped, due to which pensioners have to bear the entire amount to travel by themselves. This is the reason why many pensioner organizations have demanded to reinstate it.

Why is LTC necessary for pensioners?

Satpal Singh, President, Defence Accounts Pensioners Association, wrote in the demand that: “Travel for retired personnel is not only important for maintaining social relationships but is also beneficial for mental health and an active lifestyle.”

The idea is that these senior citizens who have selflessly served the country during their service should now get comfort and convenience.

What does DoPT’s reply say?

The official reply given by Lalit Kumar, Under Secretary on behalf of DoPT, states: “The suggestions made in your letter dated 17.01.2025 have been taken on record and action will be taken on it at an appropriate time.”

This statement neither immediately accepts nor completely rejects the demand. But it does indicate that the government is looking at it as a “positive idea”.

What could happen next?

It is possible that in the coming months, the government may consider giving LTC facility to pensioners in a limited scope – such as: Only All India LTC once every four years, travel permission up to limited fare or class, and special provisions for those above 65 years of age.

If this happens, it will not only be a big relief but will also boost the morale of retired employees.

Summing up…

Even though no new rule of LTC has come into effect for pensioners from July 1, 2025, it is clear from the government’s response that consideration has started on it.

This old demand of pensioners has now been recorded in the official records. If the government brings any policy on this in the coming time, it will be a big gift for crores of retired employees 

M Arunachalam