Social security pension schemes in India have been launched to provide financial assistance to the weaker sections of the society. These include widow pension, disabled pension, and old age pension. These schemes provide social security to destitute old, widows, disabled and poor. The main objective of these schemes is to provide better standard of living to the beneficiaries.
Under these schemes, the beneficiaries are provided financial assistance in the form of monthly pension. This assistance is provided by the state governments and its amount may vary according to the state. Recently, some changes are being discussed in these schemes, which aim to provide more assistance to the beneficiaries. Before giving detailed information about these changes, let’s take a look at the main aspects of Social Security Pension Schemes.
Social Security Pension Schemes: Overview
| Description | Acquaintance |
| Name of the scheme | Widow pension, disabled pension, old age pension |
| Beneficiary | Widows, disabled person, destitute old man |
| Current pension amount | ₹ 300 to ₹ 2000 per month (as per state) |
| Age limit | 18 to 79 years (may vary by state) |
| Application process | Online and offline |
| Required documents | Aadhar card, bank account details, income certificate |
| Date of alleged change | 21 January 2025 (Potential) |
| Proposed pension amount | ₹ 3500 to ₹ 5000 per month (potential) |
Possible change in widow pension scheme
Some significant changes are being discussed in the widow pension scheme. These include an increase in pension amount and change in age limit. Let’s take a look at these possible changes:
- Increase in pension amount: It is being said that the amount of widow pension can be increased to ₹ 3500 per month. This is about 75% more than the current amount.
- Change in age limit: As per the proposed rules, widows between 18 and 60 years of age will be able to avail this scheme. This is higher than the first age limit.
- Aadhaar Card Mandatory: Under new rules, Aadhaar card can be made mandatory for obtaining pension. This will bring transparency in the plan.
- Online application process: It is being said that the application process for pension will be made completely online. This will facilitate the beneficiaries.
- Skill Development Program: Under the new scheme, skill development program is also being launched for widows.
Possible change in disabled pension scheme
There is also a discussion of making some significant changes in the Divyang Pension Scheme. The purpose of these proposed changes is to improve the standard of living of disabled persons. Let’s look at these possible changes:
- Increase in pension amount: It is being said that the amount of disabled pension can be increased from ₹ 4000 to ₹ 5000 per month. This is much higher than the current amount.
- Changes in eligibility criteria: Under new rules, people with 40% or more disabled may be eligible for this scheme.
- Improvement in disability certificate process: In the proposed changes, it is being said to simplify the process of obtaining disability certificate.
- Employment opportunities: Under the new scheme, special employment fairs are being held for disabled persons.
- Barrier-free access: There is a plan to ensure obstruction free access to disabled persons in government offices.
Characteristics of old age pension scheme
The main objective of the old age pension scheme is to provide social security to the destitute old people. Let’s take a look at some characteristics of this scheme:
- Eligibility Criteria: Dusted elders over 60 years of age are eligible for this scheme.
- Pension amount: The amount of old age pension can vary according to the state, but is usually ₹ 600 per month.
- Necessary documents: Aadhaar card, bank account details, income certificate.
- Application Process: Online and offline application facility is available.
Application process for new pension scheme
If these new rules are applicable, the application process may also change. However, no official information has been given yet. Nevertheless, the potential application process can be as follows:
- Online application: The beneficiaries will be able to apply online by visiting the government portal.
- Necessary documents: Aadhaar card, bank account details, income certificate, and disability certificate (for disabled pension) have to be uploaded.
- Application check: Government officials will check applications and documents.
- Approval and Payment: In case of approved application, the pension amount will be submitted directly to the beneficiary’s bank account.
Disclaimer: This article provides general information about social security pension schemes. The changes and proposed rules described in it are only probable and cannot be real without official declaration. The beneficiaries should get the latest information from their state government website or concerned officials.
