Defence pension basics: PPO, SPARSH, DA and the yearly life certificate

A plain-language overview for veterans and families: what the PPO is, how SPARSH works, and the checks to do every year.

Updated 09 Oct 2026 · by Mustfa Software

This page is general information, not official advice. Rules change through government orders; always confirm your own case on SPARSH, DESW or with your record office / PCDA(P). Mustfa Software is not connected with any government body.

The PPO — your most important pension paper

The Pension Payment Order (PPO) states your pension, the date it starts, commutation (if any) and the family pension details. Keep the original safe and a scanned copy in two places. Most pension questions are answered by comparing your bank credit with what the PPO and later corrigendum PPOs say.

How the monthly amount is built

• Basic pension — under the 7th Pay Commission, service pension is generally 50% of the last basic pay drawn (with special rules for different ranks and OROP revisions).
• Dearness Relief (DR) — a percentage of basic pension that the government revises from time to time.
• Commutation cut — if you commuted part of the pension, that part is deducted for 15 years and then restored. See the commutation guide.
• Other elements — disability or war-injury elements, constant attendance allowance, etc., where they apply.

SPARSH in short

SPARSH is the online system for defence pension. Through it you can see your pension details and monthly slips, raise grievances and update some personal details. Log in with your PPO-linked details; if something is wrong (name spelling, bank account, date of birth), raise it early — corrections take time.

The yearly check-list

1. Life certificate every year by the due date (online through Jeevan Pramaan, at a SPARSH service centre, bank or CSC), otherwise the pension may stop.
2. Match one month's bank credit with the pension slip.
3. After a DR announcement, check that the new rate and any arrears were paid.
4. Keep your mobile number and e-mail updated so you receive OTPs and messages.
5. Family members should know where the PPO and documents are kept.

Family pension in one line

After the pensioner's death the eligible family member receives family pension (normally 30% of the last basic pay, with higher "enhanced" rates in some cases and for a period). The spouse should apply quickly with the death certificate and PPO.