Old Age, Widow and Disabled Pension Scheme is an important social security scheme run by the Government of India. The main objective of this scheme is to provide financial assistance to the weaker sections of the society. Recently, some new rules have been implemented in this scheme which are important for the beneficiaries.
The objective of these new rules is to make the scheme more effective and provide timely assistance to the beneficiaries. In this article, we will give detailed information about these new rules and also tell how these rules will affect the beneficiaries.
What is Old Age, Widow and Disabled Pension Scheme?
Old Age, Widow and Disabled Pension Scheme is a social security program that provides monthly pension to old age, widow and disabled persons. This scheme is for those who are financially weak and need assistance in their daily life.
Brief description of the scheme
Description | Information |
name of the scheme | Old Age, Widow and Disabled Pension Scheme |
beneficiary | Elderly, widows and disabled persons |
Age Limit (Old Age Pension) | 60 years or older |
Age Limit (Widow Pension) | 18 years or older |
disability percentage | 40% or more |
income limit | below the poverty line |
pension amount | vary by state |
application process | online or offline |
document | Aadhar Card, Bank Passbook, Age Certificate etc. |
New rules for old age pension
Some important changes have been made in the Old Age Pension Scheme. These new rules aim to make the scheme more transparent and effective.
- Age Certification: Now beneficiaries will have to get their age certified every year. This rule will ensure that only eligible persons receive pension.
- Digital Payment: Pension will now be paid directly into the beneficiary’s bank account. This process will reduce corruption and ensure timely payments.
- Online Application: Beneficiaries can now apply online. This will make the process faster and convenient.
New rules for widow pension
Some important changes have also been made in the Widow Pension Scheme. These rules are designed to provide greater assistance to widows.
- Age relaxation: Now all widows above 18 years of age are eligible for this scheme. Earlier this limit was 40 years.
- Status of Remarriage: If a widow remarries, her pension will not stop. This rule will help widows make a fresh start.
- Skill Development: Widows will now be given the opportunity to participate in skill development programmes. This will help them become self-reliant.
New rules for disability pension
Some important changes have also been made in the Disabled Pension Scheme. These rules have been made keeping in mind the special needs of persons with disabilities.
- Disability Percentage: Now persons with 40% or more disability are eligible for this scheme. Earlier this limit was 60%.
- Medical Certificate: Disability certificate will now have to be submitted once every three years. This rule will prevent misuse of the scheme.
- Assistive Devices: Along with pension, assistive devices will also be provided to disabled persons.
pension application process
The process of applying for pension has now been made more simple. Applicants can apply through both online or offline modes.
online application process
- Go to government portal
- Register New User
- Fill in the required information
- upload document
- submit application
offline application process
- Go to nearest government office
- Get Application Form
- Fill the form and attach the required documents
- submit form
Required Documents
The following documents are required while applying for pension:
- Aadhar card
- copy of bank passbook
- age certificate
- Address proof
- income certificate
- Disability Certificate (for Disability Pension)
- Death certificate of husband (for widow pension)
pension amount
The pension amount varies according to the state. However, the Central Government has prescribed a minimum amount:
- Old Age Pension: ₹200-1000 per month
- Widow Pension: ₹300-1200 per month
- Disability Pension: ₹300-1500 per month
pension payment process
Pension is now paid directly into the beneficiary’s bank account. This process is done through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
- Pension amount is released on 1st of every month
- The beneficiary is informed through SMS
- Beneficiaries can withdraw money from ATM or bank
Pension Inspection and Monitoring
Regular inspection and monitoring is done to prevent misuse of the scheme.
- Annual Verification: Verification of beneficiaries is done every year
- Aadhar Linking: It is mandatory to link pension account with Aadhar
- Grievance Redressal: A helpline number is available for complaints
Benefits of pension scheme
There are several important benefits of this scheme:
- provides financial security
- helps in eradicating poverty
- Empowers the weaker sections of the society
- Helps the elderly and widows to live with dignity
- Helps people with disabilities become self-reliant
Challenges of pension scheme
Although this scheme is very profitable, it still has some challenges:
- Lack of awareness: Many eligible persons are not aware of the scheme
- Documentation: Some people find it difficult to collect the required documents
- Corruption: There is a problem of corruption in some areas
- Delay: Sometimes the payment of pension gets delayed
future plans
The government is making continuous efforts to further improve this scheme. Some proposed improvements are:
- increase in pension amount
- Digital Literacy Program
- integration of health insurance
- providing employment opportunities
conclusion
Old Age, Widow and Disabled Pension Scheme is a boon for the weaker sections of the society. With the new rules, the scheme has become more effective and accessible. Although there are some challenges, the government is making continuous efforts to overcome them.
Disclaimer: The information given in this article is based on public sources and general information. For any kind of accurate information related to the scheme, contact the concerned government department or official portal. The author is not responsible for any changes or errors in the information given here.