Iran’s East Azerbaijan Province Enhances Pensioner Support with New E-Services and Financial Boost
Retirees in the region benefit from a significant minimum payment increase and a suite of new digital services aimed at improving welfare and accessibility.
TABRIZ, Iran – In a significant move to support retirees, the East Azerbaijan Pension Fund has announced a substantial increase in monthly payments and the launch of 34 new electronic services this month. The initiatives are part of broader efforts to enhance the quality of life for pensioners and streamline access to essential services.
Key Financial and Service Enhancements
During a press conference held on Government Week, Tahereh Ahmadzadeh, Manager of the East Azerbaijan Pension Fund, detailed the new measures. She confirmed that a minimum of 20 million tomans will now be deposited into the accounts of the province’s retirees each month.
Simultaneously, the fund has rolled out 34 new e-services to facilitate easier access to welfare and support services. These digital platforms are designed to simplify processes and reduce bureaucratic hurdles for beneficiaries.
Supporting Families and Promoting Welfare
The fund’s support extends beyond monthly payments. To date, 737 retirees have successfully received marriage loans for their children. This financial aid, disbursed in two installments totaling 600 million rials, represents a significant investment in family stability. Overall, more than 440 billion rials have been deposited into retirees’ accounts through this program.
A wide array of other services is also offered, including:
- Installment-based insurance plans
- Credit purchases from reputable stores
- Discounted domestic and international tourism facilities
- Sports festivals
These programs are strategically designed to elevate the living standards of retirees and their families.
Demographics and Recognition
Currently, the fund provides for 89,806 retirees in the province, with an average monthly income of 205 million rials. Over 64% of these pensioners are from the education sector, followed by significant numbers from the University of Medical Sciences, Road and Urban Development, and Agricultural Jihad.
The East Azerbaijan Pension Fund’s performance has been recognized nationally, earning it the top rank in the country. It also operates six active “Hope Houses” in the cities of Tabriz, Marand, Ahar, Sarab, Mianeh, and Malekan. These community centers are vital, hosting cultural, social, and sporting programs 60-70% of the time.
Addressing Structural Challenges
Ms. Ahmadzadeh also addressed ongoing challenges, noting that the declining ratio of active workers to retirees in government agencies has placed considerable pressure on the fund’s resources. She clarified that only 10% of pension payments are sourced directly from the fund, with the government covering the remaining balance to ensure continuous and reliable support for retirees.
Strategic Economic Planning for Long-Term Stability
In a related development, Engineer Ehsan Mousavi, CEO of the Saba Omran Holding Company, announced the acquisition of a building permit for the large-scale Motahari project after a nine-year hiatus. This 22-story administrative-commercial complex, with a built-up area of over 19,000 square meters, is set to commence construction shortly.
Mr. Mousvi highlighted that the project is a testament to efficient asset management and smart economic planning. It is expected to generate significant long-term value and provide a substantial financial return for the pension fund, thereby creating a more stable and prosperous future for its beneficiaries.
