Govt Launches Reforms to Fix Pension Delays for Overseas Pakistanis

The federal government has launched a set of reforms to resolve chronic delays in pension payments to overseas Pakistani retirees, according to a statement issued by the Ministry of Finance on Sunday.  The move marks a major effort to modernise the pension system and remove hurdles that have affected thousands of beneficiaries living abroad. The reforms are being implemented in coordination with the Controller General of Accounts and the Accountant General Pakistan Revenues.  Both departments are now working together to upgrade the flow of pension data and documentation across departments.  Officials said the initiative aims to eliminate logistical issues that have long complicated payments outside Pakistan. As part of the plan, the Finance Division is improving the integration of pension and General Provident Fund records between autonomous bodies and the AGPR system.  Strengthening this digital linkage is expected to reduce processing time for pensions and GPF contributions, especially for employees who serve on deputation and face additional verification steps. The ministry said the broader effort focuses on streamlining pension procedures, updating outdated data, and ensuring overseas retirees can receive their dues on time without repeated follow-ups or manual paperwork. The issue has gained increasing attention after recent audits pointed to weaknesses in old age pension administration, prompting calls for transparency and digital reforms across government departments.