The Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana provides monthly financial assistance to eligible senior citizens from poor households. The Department of Rural Development implements the scheme with State and Union Territory governments. Eligible beneficiaries aged 60 to 79 receive ₹200 per month from the Centre, while those aged 80 and above receive ₹500 per month, along with any additional State contribution. The Union Cabinet approved the scheme’s new name on 14 October 2026.
Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana Highlights | |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana |
| Earlier Name | Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) |
| Parent Programme | Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana |
| Renaming Date | 14 October 2026 |
| Approved By | Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi |
| Implementing Department | Department of Rural Development, Ministry of Rural Development |
| Programme Outlay | ₹53,428 crore for 2026-27 to 2030-31 |
| Programme Beneficiaries | Approximately 3.20 crore across all States and Union Territories |
| Central Pension for Ages 60-79 | ₹200 per month |
| Central Pension for Ages 80 and Above | ₹500 per month |
| Additional State Contribution | ₹50 to ₹3,800 per month, depending on the State |
| Eligibility | Indian citizens aged 60 years or above who belong to eligible Below Poverty Line (BPL) households |
| Beneficiary Contribution | None; the scheme is non-contributory |
| Payment Method | Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary’s bank or post office account |
| Where to Apply | Gram Panchayat, Block office, Municipal office, District Social Welfare Office or the State’s official pension portal |
| Official Portal | Check the relevant government pension portal for your State or Union Territory. |
Introduction of Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana: A Brief Insight
Many elderly people in India have no savings, pension or regular income to depend on when they can no longer work. Even a small amount of money each month can help them buy medicines, food and other essentials. The Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana aims to support such senior citizens with a regular monthly pension.
The scheme was previously known as the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme. On 14 October 2026, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved the new name. The scheme operates under the Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana, which has an approved outlay of ₹53,428 crore for 2026-27 to 2030-31 and aims to cover around 3.20 crore beneficiaries.
The Department of Rural Development, Ministry of Rural Development, implements the scheme in coordination with State and Union Territory governments. Its main objective is to provide financial support to eligible elderly people from poor households and help them live with dignity.
The Central Government provides ₹200 per month to eligible beneficiaries aged 60 to 79 years and ₹500 per month to those aged 80 years and above. States and UTs may add their own contributions, ranging from ₹50 to ₹3,800 per month. As a result, the total pension varies by location, with an average of around ₹1,000 per month in many States.
Indian citizens aged 60 years or above who belong to eligible Below Poverty Line (BPL) households can apply. Both men and women qualify if they meet the prescribed conditions. Beneficiaries do not need to pay any premium or make contributions to receive the pension.
You can apply through your Gram Panchayat, Block office, Municipal office or District Social Welfare Office. Many States also accept applications through their official online portals. Existing pensioners do not need to apply again solely because of the name change. For assistance, contact your local Block or District office.
You can also read our earlier guide to the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme and learn more about the broader Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana. Senior citizens aged 70 and above may also qualify for free health cover of up to ₹5 lakh under the Ayushman Bharat Vay Vandana Card, subject to the applicable conditions.
Senior citizens, their families and other readers can explore more national-level social security and welfare programmes on our Central Government Welfare Schemes List page.
Benefits Provided to Eligible Beneficiaries
Under the Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana, the Central Government provides a monthly pension to eligible senior citizens, while State and UT governments may add their own contribution. This support helps elderly people from poor households manage their basic expenses during old age.
- ₹200 per month from the Centre for beneficiaries aged 60 to 79 years.
- ₹500 per month from the Centre for beneficiaries aged 80 years and above.
- The Central pension amount increases to ₹500 per month when a beneficiary turns 80.
- Additional financial support from the State or UT, ranging from ₹50 to ₹3,800 per month, depending on the location.
- Total monthly pension of around ₹1,000 in many States, including the State’s contribution.
- No contribution or premium required from beneficiaries.
- Direct transfer of pension payments to the beneficiary’s bank or post office account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Eligibility Conditions Required to be Fulfilled
The Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana supports elderly people from economically weaker households who need financial assistance during old age. Applicants must meet the following eligibility conditions to receive the pension.
- Must be a citizen of India.
- Must be 60 years of age or above.
- Must belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) household under the applicable criteria.
- Both men and women can apply.
- No upper age limit applies.
- Must not receive a pension as a retired Government employee.
- BPL widows and persons with severe disabilities aged 60 to 79 may qualify under separate widow or disability pension schemes, subject to the applicable eligibility rules.
Documents Required to be Attached
Applicants need to provide documents to prove their age, financial status and residence when applying for the Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana. The required documents may vary slightly from one State or UT to another, but applicants generally need the following papers.
- Aadhaar Card
- Age proof, such as a birth certificate, school certificate, voter ID or another accepted document
- BPL ration card or other accepted proof of BPL status
- Residence proof of the State or UT
- Bank or post office passbook showing the account number and IFSC code
- Recent passport-size photograph
- Mobile number for application updates
How Beneficiaries Can Apply to Avail the Benefit of the Scheme
The Central Government provides funds for the pension, but each State and Union Territory manages the application process and checks the details of applicants. This means the application process may differ depending on where you live. You can usually apply by visiting a local government office, while some States also allow online applications. Follow the method that works in your State or UT.
Method 1: Apply Offline in a Village or Rural Area
Step 1: Visit your Gram Panchayat office or Block Development Office (BDO) and ask about the old age pension application process.
Step 2: Ask the officials for the application form for the old age pension scheme. Confirm the scheme’s correct name with them before filling it out.
Step 3: Fill in the form with your name, age, residential address and bank account details. Check all the information carefully.
Step 4: Attach copies of your Aadhaar Card, age proof, BPL proof, bank or post office passbook and recent passport-size photograph, as required by your State.
Step 5: Submit the completed form and documents to the concerned official. Ask for an acknowledgement or receipt so you can follow up on your application.
Method 2: Apply Offline in a Town or City
Step 1: Visit your Municipal Office or District Social Welfare Office and ask where you can apply for the old age pension.
Step 2: Collect the application form and fill in your personal, age and bank details correctly.
Step 3: Attach the required documents and submit the form to the concerned officer. Keep the acknowledgement or application number for future reference.
Method 3: Apply Online Through Your State Portal
Step 1: Visit the official social welfare or pension portal of your State or UT. Make sure you use the government website.
Step 2: Find the old age pension section. Register or log in using the details requested by the portal, which may include your Aadhaar number and mobile number.
Step 3: Fill in the application form with your personal details, age, address and bank account information. Upload scanned copies of the required documents.
Step 4: Check all the details before submitting the form. Save or print your application number and acknowledgement for future reference.
Method 4: Apply Online Through the UMANG Portal or App
Step 1: Visit the official UMANG Portal or open the UMANG mobile app on your smartphone.
Step 2: Register or log in to your UMANG account using the details requested by the platform. If you are a new user, complete the registration process first.
Step 3: Search for the old age pension scheme or Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana in the available services. Select the relevant pension service if it is available for your State or UT.
Step 4: Enter your personal details, age, address and bank account information in the application form. Upload the required documents, such as your Aadhaar Card, age proof and BPL proof, wherever the portal asks for them.
Step 5: Review your application carefully and submit it. Save the application or reference number so you can check your application status later.
Important: The pension services available through UMANG may vary by State or UT. If you cannot find the relevant old age pension service, visit your State’s official pension portal or contact the concerned Social Welfare Department for guidance.
After You Submit Your Application
Step 1: The concerned officials check your age, BPL status, documents and other eligibility details.
Step 2: The responsible Block, District or other designated authority reviews your application and decides whether you qualify for the pension.
Step 3: If the authorities approve your application, they process your pension payments according to the rules followed by your State or UT. The money is generally transferred directly to your bank or post office account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
How to Check Your Pension Details
Step 1: Visit the official Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana Portal under the Ministry of Rural Development.
Step 2: Look for the available beneficiary details, pension status or payment reports. Select the relevant options to check your information, where these services are available.
Step 3: If your pension payment is delayed, check your bank account details and contact your Block, District or concerned pension office for help. Ask the officials whether you need to correct any information or complete an additional verification step.
Important: Read the Cabinet’s official announcement on the renaming of the scheme to understand the change. Do not submit a fresh application solely because the scheme’s name has changed; confirm the instructions with the concerned pension authority if you already receive the pension.
From IGNOAPS to Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana: What Has Changed?
The old-age pension scheme has evolved over the years, with changes to its name, eligibility age and funding. Here is a timeline of the key developments, from its introduction in 1995 to its latest renaming in 2026.
| Year | Milestone |
|---|---|
| 15 August 1995 | The national old-age pension programme was introduced to provide financial assistance to eligible elderly people. |
| 2007 | The scheme was renamed the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS), bringing eligible elderly people from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households under its coverage. |
| 2011 | The minimum eligibility age was reduced from 65 to 60 years. The monthly central pension for beneficiaries aged 80 and above was also increased to ₹500. |
| 14 October 2026 | The Union Cabinet approved the new name, Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana, and continued the scheme for the period up to 2030-31. |
What Remains Unchanged?
- Monthly pension: ₹200 for beneficiaries aged 60-79 and ₹500 for those aged 80 and above from the Central Government.
- Age and income criteria: Applicants must be at least 60 years old and belong to an eligible Below Poverty Line (BPL) household.
- Existing beneficiaries: Current pensioners do not need to submit a fresh application solely because of the scheme’s name change.
What Has Changed?
- New scheme name: The scheme is now called Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana.
- Parent programme: It now operates under the Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana.
- Funding approval: The scheme has received a fresh five-year approval with an outlay of ₹53,428 crore for 2026-27 to 2030-31.
How State Contributions Affect Your Monthly Pension
The Central Government provides a fixed monthly pension of ₹200 to eligible beneficiaries aged 60 to 79 and ₹500 to those aged 80 and above. However, the total amount you receive depends on the additional financial assistance provided by your State or Union Territory (UT).
| Part of the Pension | Contributing Government | Monthly Amount |
|---|---|---|
| Central pension (ages 60-79) | Government of India | ₹200 |
| Central pension (ages 80 and above) | Government of India | ₹500 |
| Additional State or UT contribution | Respective State or UT Government | ₹50 to ₹3,800 |
Why Pension Amounts Differ Across States
- Different State contributions: Each State or UT decides how much additional pension support it provides, so the total monthly amount varies by location.
- Average pension: In many States, the combined monthly pension amounts to around ₹1,000, including the Central Government’s share and the State’s contribution.
- Wider coverage: Some States may extend pension benefits to elderly people beyond the central eligibility criteria, subject to their own rules.
- Confirm your pension amount: Contact your State’s Social Welfare Department or the concerned pension office to find out the exact amount applicable to you.
What the October 2026 Renaming Means for Senior Citizens
- New Scheme Name: On 14 October 2026, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved renaming the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme as the Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana.
- Five-Year Funding Approval: The broader programme, now called the Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana, received an outlay of ₹53,428 crore for 2026-27 to 2030-31, with an estimated coverage of 3.20 crore beneficiaries.
- Existing Pension Rates Continue: The Central Government’s monthly pension remains ₹200 for eligible beneficiaries aged 60-79 and ₹500 for those aged 80 and above. The existing eligibility conditions also remain unchanged.
- No Fresh Application Required: Existing pensioners do not need to submit a new application solely because of the name change. New applicants must follow the prescribed application process through the relevant local office or official State pension portal.
Important Links Available of the Scheme
- Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana (NSAP) official portal
- Cabinet decision renaming IGNOAPS as Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana
- Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India
- UMANG app for pension services
Contact Details in Case of Help Needed
- Central Ministry: Department of Rural Development, Ministry of Rural Development, Krishi Bhawan, New Delhi – 110001
- State Level: Social Welfare or Social Justice Department of your State or UT
- District Level: District Social Welfare Officer
- Local Level: Block Development Office, Gram Panchayat or Municipal office
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Ans. It is a Central Government pension scheme that provides monthly financial assistance to eligible senior citizens from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households. It was earlier known as the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS).
Ans. The Union Cabinet approved the new name on 14 October 2026.
Ans. No. According to the information provided, the pension continues under the existing rates and eligibility conditions. The name change does not require existing beneficiaries to apply again.
Ans. The Central Government provides ₹200 per month to eligible beneficiaries aged 60 to 79 years and ₹500 per month to those aged 80 years and above.
Ans. State and UT governments may add their own contributions to the Central pension. These additional amounts vary by location, so beneficiaries may receive different total pension amounts.
Ans. Indian citizens aged 60 years or above who belong to eligible BPL households can apply, subject to the applicable eligibility conditions.
Ans. Yes. Eligible men and women can apply for the pension if they meet the prescribed conditions.
Ans. No. Existing beneficiaries do not need to submit a fresh application solely because the scheme’s name has changed. They should continue to follow the instructions issued by their State or UT pension authorities.
Ans. No. The scheme provides a non-contributory pension, so eligible beneficiaries do not need to pay a premium or make regular contributions to receive it.
Ans. You can enquire about the application process at your Gram Panchayat, Block office, Municipal office or District Social Welfare Office. You can also check your State or UT’s official pension portal for online application facilities.
Ans. The pension is generally transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank or post office account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), according to the applicable payment arrangements.
Ans. Visit your State or UT’s official pension portal or contact the concerned pension office to check your beneficiary details and payment status.
Ans. The information provided states that the scheme has an outlay of ₹53,428 crore for the period from 2026-27 to 2030-31.
Ans. Eligible senior citizen widows may qualify for the old age pension if they meet its conditions. The information provided also identifies a separate widow pension scheme for eligible BPL widows aged 40 to 79. Check your State’s applicable rules to determine which pension scheme suits your circumstances.
Ans. No. The two schemes have different purposes. The Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana provides financial assistance to eligible senior citizens from poor households, while the Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana was an investment-based pension scheme.
Tabassum is a government schemes researcher and writer with 5 years of experience tracking Central and State welfare scheme programmes across India. She has covered 500+ schemes spanning agriculture, women welfare, education, and housing, helping lakhs of beneficiaries understand their entitlements in simple language.