Launched on 15th August 1995, the “Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme” is a flagship pension initiative by the Social Welfare Department of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The scheme is designed to provide financial support to Below Poverty Line (BPL) households by ensuring that elderly individuals receive a steady income during their retirement years.
Benefits
- Monthly Pension:
Eligible beneficiaries receive a pension of ₹1,000/- per month. - Mode of Disbursement:
Pension amounts are disbursed directly to the beneficiary’s bank account or via money orders.
Eligibility
To qualify for the scheme, the applicant must:
- Be a resident of Jammu and Kashmir.
- Be 60 years of age or older, but below 80 years (as the scheme covers individuals aged 60 to 79 years).
- Belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) family.
Application Process
Offline Process
- Collect the Application Form:
- Visit the Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO) in your area during office hours.
- Request a hard copy of the prescribed application form.
- Complete the Application Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields.
- Affix a passport-sized photograph (signed across, if required).
- Attach self-attested copies of all necessary documents.
- Submit the Form:
- Submit the completed and signed application form along with the required documents within the prescribed period to the TSWO.
- Obtain Acknowledgement:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgement from the concerned authority.
- Ensure that the receipt contains the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Post-Application Process
- Verification:
- The TSWO verifies the submitted forms.
- Review:
- Verified forms are forwarded to the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO) for review.
- Sanctioning:
- The District Level Committee reviews the applications and sanctions the pension.
Note:
After submission, make a photocopy of the filled application form and the acknowledgement receipt for future reference. Also, ensure that your application is submitted within any prescribed period.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Passport-size Photograph
- Identity Proof (e.g., Voter ID Card or Driving License)
- Proof of Age
- Below Poverty Line (BPL) Card or Ration Card
- Caste Certificate (if applicable)
- Address Proof
- Bank Passbook/Bank Account Details
- Any other documents as required
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme?
It is a social welfare scheme providing a monthly pension of ₹1,000/- to elderly individuals from BPL families in Jammu and Kashmir. -
Who is eligible for the scheme?
The scheme is for residents of Jammu and Kashmir aged between 60 and 79 years, belonging to BPL families. -
How much pension is provided under this scheme?
A monthly pension of ₹1,000/- is provided. -
How is the pension funded?
The pension is funded by the Government of Maharashtra under this centrally sponsored scheme (adapted for Jammu and Kashmir). -
What is the purpose of this scheme?
The scheme aims to provide financial security and improve the standard of living for elderly individuals from economically disadvantaged backgrounds. -
When was the scheme launched?
It was launched on 15th August 1995. -
Can people above 79 years of age apply?
No, the scheme is designed for individuals aged 60 to 79 years. -
How do I apply for the pension?
Applications are submitted offline at the Tehsil Social Welfare Office. -
Is there any income limit for eligibility?
Yes, the applicant must belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) family.