Big announcement of the government! Disabled, widow and old pension holders will get direct benefit? Viklang, Vidhwa, Vardha Pension New Update – StudyToper

Older, widow and disabled pension scheme is an important social security program being 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, the government has announced to make some major changes in the scheme, which will be applicable from 1 March 2025.

The purpose of these changes 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 changes. Also, we will also tell how these changes will affect the beneficiaries and who will be eligible for this scheme.

Disabled Pension Scheme: Overview and new changes

Many significant changes have been made in old age, widow and disabled pension scheme, also known as Viklang Pension Yojana. Let’s see a brief information about this scheme:

Increase in pension amount

The government has announced a significant increase in the pension amount. This decision has been made keeping in mind inflation. The new pension amount will be as follows:

• Old age pension: Earlier it was ₹ 1000, now it will increase to ₹ 1500.
• Widow Pension: Earlier ₹ 900 was, now it will be ₹ 1400.
• Divyang pension: Earlier ₹ 1200 was, now ₹ 1700 will be.

This increase will provide additional financial assistance to the beneficiaries every month, which will improve their standard of living.

Changes in eligibility criteria

Some changes have also been made in the eligibility criteria for the plan:

For old age pension:

• Age: 60 years or more
• Annual Income: less than ₹ 1,00,000
• Residence: Should be a permanent resident of the respective state

For widow pension:

• Age: 18 years or more
• Marital status: not remarried
• Income: Annual Family Income less than ₹ 1,00,000

For disabled pension:

• Age: 18 years or more
• Disability: at least 40% disability
• Income: Annual Family Income less than ₹ 1,00,000

Improvement in application process

The process of applying for pension has been made more simple. Now applicants can apply in both online or offline methods.

Online application process:

1. Go to government portal
2. Register new user
3. Fill the required information
4. Upload documents
5. submit application

Offline application process:

1. Go to the nearest government office
2. Get the application form
3. Fill the form and attach the required documents
4. Submit the form

Digital verification system

The government has implemented a new digital verification system. According to this:

• Linking with Aadhaar card will be mandatory
• There will be otp verification from mobile number
• Biometric verification facility will be available

This system will help prevent fraud and to deliver pension to the right beneficiaries.

Improvement in pension distribution system

Many improvements have also been made in the distribution of pension:

• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT): Pension will be deposited directly in the beneficiary’s bank account
• NEFT/RTGS: Use of NEFT/RTGS for fast and safe payment
• SMS Alert: Beneficiary will get SMS alert on pension deposits

Grievance redressal system

A new mechanism has been established for redress of complaints related to the scheme:

• Toll-free helpline: 24 × 7 available toll-free number
• Online Portal: Online Portal to file and track complaints
• Mobile App: Mobile app to file complaint and check status

Skill development program

A new skill development program has been started for the beneficiaries:

• Free vocational training
• Connection with employment opportunities
• Help for self -employment

This program will help the beneficiaries to become self -sufficient.

Health Insurance Coverage

All pensioners will now be given free health insurance coverage:

• Coverage up to ₹ 5 lakh
• Cashless treatment facility
• All government and select private hospitals valid

Mobile app launch

A new mobile app has been launched which will provide the following facilities:

• Pension status information
• Document update facility
• Register a complaint
• Information about close government offices

Required document

The following documents are required when applying for pension:

• Aadhar card
• Copy of bank passbook
• Age certificate
• Address proof
• Income certificate
• Disability Certificate (for Disabled Pension)
• Husband’s death certificate (for widow pension)

Pension inspection and monitoring

Regular inspections and monitoring are done to prevent misuse of the scheme:

• Annual verification: beneficiaries are verified every year
• Aadhaar Linking: It is mandatory to link pension account to Aadhaar
• Random Check: Random Check is done by officers

Important dates

• Last date of application: 31 May 2025
• Date of implementation of new rules: 1 March 2025
• Distribution of first increased pension: April 2025

Frequently asked questions (FAQs)

1. Will existing beneficiaries have to apply again?
   No, existing beneficiaries do not need to re -apply.
2. Will the pension amount be equal in all states?
   No, the pension amount may vary according to the state.
3. Are foreign nationals eligible for this scheme?
   No, this scheme is only for Indian citizens.
4. Is the pension amount taxable?
   No, there is no tax on the pension amount.
5. Will the pension amount increase every year?
   Yes, the pension amount will be increased annually on the basis of inflation rate.

Disclaimer: This article is only for informative purposes. The information given in it is of general nature and should not be taken as legal or financial advice. The terms and conditions of the plan can change from time to time. Please contact the concerned government department or official sources for the latest and accurate information. Writers or publishers will not be responsible for any damage or damage caused by the use of this information.