70-year-old Odisha woman spends Rs 600 to collect Rs 1,000 pension, thanks to outdated government records

In an ironic twist of fate, 70-year-old Bagi Sabar from Govindpur Panchayat, Mohana block, Gajapati district, faces immense hardship to survive. One of her greatest struggles is having to spend 500 to 600 rupees just to collect a pension of 1,000 rupees, all due to outdated government records.

Reports indicate that Bagi returned to her native place following her husband's death ten years ago. However, instead of finding solace, she was refused care by her sons and forced to seek shelter in a dilapidated structure. She survives by consuming mahua flowers and karanja seeds, relying on whatever little she can gather.

Pension Stuck in Outdated Records

During her married years, she lived in Chhelagada Panchayat of R. Udayagiri block. Although she moved out a decade ago, government records have not been updated. As a result, her pension continues to be dispensed from Chhelagada, requiring her to collect it in person.

Every month, the frail septuagenarian embarks on a strenuous 60-kilometre journey to collect her pension. By the time she reaches home in Govindpur, more than half of the amount has already been spent on travel expenses.

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Ration Benefits but No Pension Relief

Despite being registered for ration benefits in Govindpur, her pension records remain unchanged. While she receives rice from her home village, she continues to endure immense pain and struggles to claim her pension from a distant block.

“I am weak and widowed. My sons refused to take care of me. I do not know how to update the documents and have no idea about my future,” lamented Bagi Sabar.

Steps Toward Resolution

The district social security officer has assured that after submitting an application, necessary measures will soon be taken to ensure she receives her pension from Mohana block itself.

“The old woman collects about 35 kg of rice from Govindpur, but the journey to Chhelagada robs her of her only means of money. The district head officials must look into the matter,” said Sunil Kumar Nayak, social security officer of Govindpur.

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When contacted, Mohana BDO Rajib Das assured that steps would be taken. “The panchayat should have updated her records. However, now that you (OTV) have brought the matter to my notice, we will ensure that she gets both her ration and pension from Govindpur starting next month,” he added.