Centre extends social security scheme for 5 years, widens disability pension cover
What Happened
The Union Cabinet has extended the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) for 2026-27 to 2030-31, allocating ₹53,428 crore. The programme, which supports poor households through pensions and family assistance, will be renamed Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana. The government says about 3.20 crore beneficiaries across all 36 states and UTs will benefit.
Key Takeaways
The biggest change is for people with disabilities. The eligibility threshold for disability pension will fall from 80% disability to 40%, while eligibility can now begin from birth. Assistance will be ₹375 for beneficiaries aged up to 79 and ₹625 for those 80 and above. Old-age and widow pensions and the family benefit scheme will continue in their existing form.