The Delhi government has launched a significant initiative aimed at providing financial support to senior citizens aged 60 and above. Under the Old Age Pension Scheme, eligible residents can receive a monthly pension of ₹2,000 to ₹2,500. This effort seeks to benefit over 80,000 new individuals while expanding the social safety net for the elderly population in the city.
How the Pension Scheme Works
- Monthly Financial Assistance
- Residents aged 60–69 years will receive ₹2,000 per month.
- Residents aged 70 years and above will receive ₹2,500 per month.
- Additional support is provided to individuals from SC, ST, and minority communities.
- Beneficiaries’ Growth
Chief Minister Atishi announced that the new scheme would add 80,000 senior citizens to the existing list of pensioners, bringing the total count to 5.3 lakh beneficiaries. - Commitment to Welfare
The government emphasized its dedication to ensuring a dignified life for the elderly. This program follows cabinet approval and the recent launch of an online portal for hassle-free applications.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme
To benefit from the scheme, applicants must fulfill the following conditions:
- Age: Must be 60 years or older.
- Residency: Should have lived in Delhi for at least five years.
- Income Limit: Annual family income must be below ₹1 lakh.
- Bank Account: A single-operated account is mandatory.
- No Other Pension: Applicants should not be receiving any financial assistance from the Central or State Government.
- Aadhaar Card: Aadhaar with a local Delhi address is required.
Application Process
Senior citizens can apply for the scheme through the e-District Portal launched by the Delhi government.
- Visit the portal and register using your Aadhaar-linked mobile number.
- Fill out the application form with details like personal information, income proof, and bank account details.
- Upload the necessary documents and submit the form online.
Recent Updates on the Scheme
The Old Age Pension Scheme, introduced by the AAP government, has a history of political debate. Earlier this year, the BJP accused the Delhi government of not expanding the scheme since 2018. However, the AAP government clarified that it had lobbied to restore pensions that had been halted.
In addition, a new initiative was announced to provide a monthly pension of ₹5,000 to disabled individuals in the city, further extending the government’s social welfare measures.
Why This Pension Scheme is Crucial
- Financial Security: The pension ensures a steady income for the elderly, helping them meet their basic needs.
- Social Inclusion: Targeted support for marginalized groups like SC, ST, and minority communities promotes inclusivity.
- Streamlined Process: The launch of an online portal simplifies applications, making the scheme accessible to more residents.
The Delhi government’s expanded pension scheme reflects its focus on social welfare and improving the quality of life for senior citizens. With over 80,000 new beneficiaries, this initiative promises to make a significant impact on the lives of Delhi’s elderly residents.
