The number of elderly people in India is rising every year. Many senior citizens do not have a regular source of income and depend on others for their basic needs. To help such people live a better life, the central and state governments have launched the Old Age Pension Scheme. This scheme provides a fixed amount of money every month to support their day-to-day expenses.
When Did the Scheme Start?
The National Old Age Pension Scheme was started in 1995 by the Ministry of Rural Development. It was launched as part of the National Social Assistance Program (NSAP). On 19 November 2007, the scheme was renamed as the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme. Over time, the scheme was expanded to include all elderly people who live below the poverty line (BPL).
How Much Pension Is Given?
The pension amount under this scheme is shared by both the central and state governments. As a result, the amount of money senior citizens receive every month depends on the state they live in.
Here are a few examples:
Delhi, Haryana, Andhra Pradesh: More than ₹1000 per month
Himachal Pradesh: ₹550 per month
Rajasthan: ₹500 per month
Maharashtra: ₹600 per month
Bihar: ₹400 per month
Uttar Pradesh: ₹300 per month
Senior citizens between the ages of 60 and 79 receive a pension between ₹300 to ₹1000 per month. The central government contributes ₹200, and the rest is added by the state government. Those aged 80 years and above receive ₹500 per month under the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme.
Key Benefits of the Scheme
For Elderly Aged 60 and Above: The scheme is available for citizens aged 60 years or more. Earlier, the age requirement was 65 years.
For BPL Families: The scheme mainly targets families living below the poverty line. Applicants must belong to BPL households to get central government support.
No Disqualification Due to Family Members: If the senior citizen has a son or grandson who is over 20 years of age and also lives below the poverty line, the elder person can still receive the pension.
State-Level Benefits for Non-BPL Seniors: Even if a senior citizen is not from a BPL family, they may still get pension benefits from their state government depending on local rules.
Application Process Made Easy
To make the scheme accessible, the government has made the application process available online since April 1, 2016. Eligible citizens can apply for the scheme from the comfort of their homes.
How to Apply Online
Fill out the form with required details
Upload necessary documents (like age proof, BPL certificate)
Submit the application online
Offline Application
Senior citizens can also apply at the RTPS office (Right to Public Services) located at the block level in each district.
Staff at these offices assist applicants with form filling and submission.
Final Thoughts
The Old Age Pension Scheme is a vital support system for senior citizens across India. It helps the elderly lead a more independent and respectful life. While the amount may vary from state to state, the goal of the scheme remains the same — to provide financial help to those who need it most.
If there are senior members in your family who do not have a steady income, make sure to check if they are eligible for this scheme. With both online and offline options available, applying is now simple and convenient.
