Title: Iran’s Armed Forces Pensioners Receive Significant Boost to Welfare Credit
In a move highlighting the government’s ongoing commitment to the welfare of its servicemen, Iran’s Armed Forces Social Security Organization has announced a substantial increase in the credit limit for the Hekmat Card, a special financial instrument for pensioners.
The increase, which coincides with the auspicious occasion of the birth anniversaries of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and Imam Jafar Sadiq (AS), sees the card’s monthly credit limit rise from 1.3 million tomans to 6 million tomans. This nearly five-fold enhancement is a result of coordinated efforts between the Ministry of Defense, SATA, and the Etka Organization.
A Significant Enhancement for Retirees
This policy directly empowers retirees and pensioners of the armed forces, significantly boosting their purchasing power. The increase is seen as a meaningful gesture of gratitude towards those who have dedicated their lives to national service and security.
The revised credit structure is detailed below:
| Feature | Before Increase | After Increase | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Monthly Credit | 1,300,000 Tomans | 6,000,000 Tomans | +4,700,000 Tomans |
| Installment Purchase Cap (24 months) | 31,200,000 Tomans | 144,000,000 Tomans | +112,800,000 Tomans |
| Purchasing Power | Limited | Extensive (Goods & Services) | Major Leap |
Understanding the Hekmat Card
The Hekmat Card is a unique credit facility provided through partner banks, enabling cardholders to make installment purchases for a wide range of goods and services without the need for a guarantor. Its benefits include:
- Installment purchases with no down payment or guarantor.
- Usability at Etka stores and other affiliated retail partners.
- Regular credit top-ups managed by SATA and the Etka Organization.
- Accessibility for both online and in-person transactions.
Pensioners can check their balance via SMS, a dedicated hotline, or through the official Hekmat Card mobile application.
Broader Economic Impact
Economic analysts suggest this initiative will have a positive multi-faceted impact, including improving the retirees’ standard of living, stimulating economic activity within the affiliated retail network, and providing a buffer against inflationary pressures. Repayment terms are designed to be manageable, with installments deducted directly from the pensioner’s monthly income.
Forward-Looking Perspective
While this credit expansion is a major positive development for armed forces pensioners, it is part of the government’s broader, continuous strategy to review and enhance social welfare programs. The successful implementation of such measures is a priority, ensuring they meet their intended goals of supporting those who have served the nation.
