The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) gives a monthly pension to poor elderly citizens. It is part of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) of the Ministry of Rural Development. Here is how it works.
About NSAP
NSAP was launched on 15 August 1995 to provide social assistance to poor families. It has five components:
- Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)
- Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)
- Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS)
- National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS)
- Annapurna scheme
Who is eligible for IGNOAPS
- Age 60 years or more
- Belonging to a household below the poverty line (BPL), as per criteria set by the government
How much pension
The central assistance under IGNOAPS is:
- Rs 200 per month for people aged 60 to 79 years
- Rs 500 per month for people aged 80 years and above
States and Union Territories are encouraged to add their own share. Many states pay a much higher total pension by combining central and state funds. The final amount you get depends on your state.
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How to apply
- Collect the application form from the gram panchayat, block office or municipal office, or use your state’s social welfare portal.
- Attach documents such as:
- Age proof
- BPL card or proof of being in the BPL list
- Aadhaar
- Bank or post office account details
- Photograph
- Submit the form to the panchayat or block office.
After verification, the pension is sanctioned and paid to your bank or post office account, usually through Direct Benefit Transfer.
Check status
You can check beneficiary details and payment status on the NSAP portal by selecting your state, district and other details, or through your state pension portal.
Other related schemes
- Widows aged 40 and above from BPL families can get pension under IGNWPS.
- Persons with severe disabilities aged 18 and above from BPL families can get pension under IGNDPS.
- The NFBS gives a one time sum to a BPL family on the death of the main earner aged 18 to 59.
Keep in mind
Annual life certificates or Aadhaar authentication may be needed to keep the pension active. Keep your bank account linked with Aadhaar and update your mobile number.
Bottom line
Poor elderly citizens can get a monthly pension under IGNOAPS. Apply through your panchayat or block office and check your state’s top up amount.
Source / स्रोत: National Social Assistance Programme, Ministry of Rural Development
