The Delhi government has expanded its old age pension scheme to include 80,000 more senior citizens in the scheme. With this move, the total number of beneficiaries has now increased to 5.3 lakh. The announcement was made by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) national convener Arvind Kejriwal on Monday, highlighting the government’s commitment to providing financial assistance to senior citizens.
Let’s know the detailed information about this scheme, application process, eligibility, and other important aspects.
Delhi government’s old age pension scheme
The old age pension scheme provides financial assistance to senior citizens of Delhi, especially those who are socially and economically weak. Under this scheme, the government has worked to provide pension to a large number of citizens so far. Now 80,000 more people have been included in this scheme, which makes this initiative even more effective.
Arvind Kejriwal’s statement
Arvind Kejriwal said in his statement, “It is a sin to stop the pension of old people,” his statement meant the BJP stopping the pension. He also clarified that his government has re-started those pensions and expanded the scheme to reach more needy people.
Benefits of Old Age Pension Scheme
The benefits of the Delhi government’s pension scheme are divided into different age groups for senior citizens:
- Beneficiaries from 60 to 69 years: ₹2,000 per month
- Beneficiaries from 70 years and above: ₹2,500 per month
- SC, ST and Minority Community Beneficiaries: Additional ₹500 per month
This additional amount will help the weaker sections of the society to solve their financial problems.
Online Application Process
The Delhi government has made the application process for this scheme completely online, so that more and more people can take advantage of it. Interested applicants can apply through the e-District portal:
So far, more than 10,000 applications have been filed on the portal. If anyone faces any difficulty in applying online, they can seek assistance at the District Social Welfare Office.
Documents Required for Application
Some important documents are required to complete the application process:
- Age Certificate: Government documents like birth certificate, Aadhaar card, etc.
- Residence Certificate: Ration card, electricity bill, voter ID card, or property documents.
- Bank Account Details: Sole-owner bank account linked to Aadhaar.
- SC/ST/Minority Certificate: Caste certificate or self-declaration certificate of religion.
- Passport size photo and Self-declaration of income are also required.
Eligibility Criteria
To apply in this scheme you must fulfil the following criteria:
- The applicant must be at least 60 years of age.
- The annual family income of the applicant must be less than ₹1 lakh.
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Delhi, and must have resided in Delhi for the last 5 years.
- The applicant must not be receiving any other government pension or assistance.
Application Process: How to Apply?
To apply you must follow the following steps:
- Visit the e-District portal and login.
- Upload the required documents like age proof, residence proof, bank details, etc.
- Fill the application form and finally submit it.
- Check offline or online for application status and confirmation.
Application Process Timeline
The government has clarified that all applications will be reviewed and processed within 45 days after application. If any document is found incomplete or suspicious, the applicant will be called from the District Social Welfare Office. Payments to approved beneficiaries will be made directly to their bank accounts through PFMS (Public Financial Management System).
How will the beneficiaries get the payment?
The pension will be sent directly to the beneficiaries’ bank accounts, so that they will not face any kind of hassle. The government has ensured that the payment process is completely transparent and effective.
Future of the scheme
After expanding this scheme, the Delhi government plans to implement it on an even larger scale in the future. This scheme will play an important role in improving the economic condition of the weaker sections of the society.
Social and economic impact of the scheme
This scheme seeks to strengthen the social status of senior citizens. Along with financial assistance, this scheme will help the elderly to live a dignified life. This will improve the quality of life in old age in the society.
Other Important Aspects
- Limited Family Income: The scheme will benefit only those whose annual income is less than ₹1 lakh.
- Transparency of Application: The online application process and strict scrutiny of documents ensure transparency.
- Help Desk: If a person cannot apply online, he can seek help from his nearest district office.
Conclusion
The extension of the old age pension scheme of the Delhi government is a big step for those senior citizens who are looking for a stable source to improve their financial condition. This initiative of the government has brought a new hope for the weaker sections of the societye.
FAQs
- Is it necessary to apply online for Old Age Pension Scheme?
Yes, the application for this scheme is done completely online, which makes the process more transparent and easy.
- Will there be any change in the pension benefits?
Yes, people above 70 years of age will get ₹2,500 and people aged 60-69 years will get ₹2,000 per month. SC, ST, and minority communities will get an additional ₹500.
- Will I get the benefit of this scheme if I have not lived in Delhi for 5 years?
No, the benefit of this scheme will be available only to those who have been residing in Delhi for the last 5 years.
- How many days does the application process take?
The application process is generally completed within 45 days. - Can I change any document after getting pension in the scheme?
No, there is no process to change the document after receiving pension, but if there is any change, you will have to update your information