Scheme Overview & Funding

• The Union Cabinet approved continuing the National Social Assistance Programme as the Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana for five years (2026–27 to 2030–31) with an outlay of ₹53,428 crore.
• Background & Coverage: Originally launched on August 15, 1995, under Article 41 of the Constitution, it is a 100% centrally sponsored scheme for BPL households covering 3.20 crore beneficiaries across all 36 States/UTs.
• State Top-Ups & Execution: Implemented via State welfare departments and local bodies using Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). States add top-ups (₹50 to ₹5,700/month), bringing average monthly pensions to around ₹1,100.

Renamed Sub-Schemes

1. Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana (formerly Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme)
2. Pradhan Mantri Vidhawa Pension Yojana (formerly Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme)
3. Pradhan Mantri Divyangjan Pension Yojana (formerly Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme)
4. Pradhan Mantri Parivar Labh Yojana (formerly National Family Benefit Scheme)

Major Revisions to Divyangjan Pension

While the other three sub-schemes continue in their existing form, the disability pension underwent significant changes:

• Lowered Disability Threshold: Aligned with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016, eligibility now requires a 40% benchmark disability (down from 80%).
• No Age Minimum: Minimum age limit of 18 years is removed; eligibility now runs from birth.
• Higher Rates: Monthly central assistance increased to ₹375 (ages 0–79) and ₹625 (age 80+).
• Expanded Reach: Beneficiary count under this sub-scheme rises from 8.33 Lakhs to 27.48 Lakhs.