Here is the whole scheme in one place: what you get, who qualifies, how to apply, and what to check.
| Scheme | Pradhan Mantri Divyangjan Pension Yojana (formerly Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme) |
|---|---|
| Ministry | Ministry of Rural Development, Govt of India |
| Benefit | Rs 375 a month for disabled persons, Rs 625 a month for those aged 80 and above |
| Who can apply | Persons with at least 40 per cent disability who live below the poverty line |
| How it is paid | Directly into the beneficiary's bank account |
| Apply at | nsap.nic.in, or your district or block social welfare office, or gram panchayat |
| Cost to apply | Free |
Key points
- The pension is now Rs 375 a month, and Rs 625 a month for those aged 80 and above.
- The minimum disability limit has dropped from 80 per cent to 40 per cent.
- There is no minimum age limit now.
- Only people living below the poverty line can apply.
So what exactly does a disabled person get?
The Centre has revised the monthly pension for disabled persons.
Beneficiaries aged 18 to 79 now get Rs 375 a month. It was Rs 300 earlier.
Those aged 80 years and above get Rs 625 a month. It was Rs 500 earlier.
The money is transferred directly to the bank account of the beneficiary. No middleman is involved.
The amounts can change, so please confirm the current figure on the official site, nsap.nic.in.
Who can apply, and who cannot?
The main rule is that the person must have a disability of at least 40 per cent. Earlier, the limit was 80 per cent.
The person must also live below the poverty line. This scheme is only for poor households.
There is no minimum age limit now. Earlier, applicants had to be 18 or older.
Persons who are not below the poverty line are not eligible under this scheme.
Why did the scheme change, and when did it start?
The National Social Assistance Programme started on August 15, 1995.
The disability pension was added in 2009 under the Indira Gandhi name.
The Cabinet approved the revised rules and the renaming. The scheme will run until 2030-31.
The changes follow the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act 2016, which set the 40 per cent benchmark.
What documents should you keep ready?
Keep your disability certificate ready, showing at least 40 per cent disability.
Keep your Aadhaar card and a bank account linked with Aadhaar.
Keep proof that your household is below the poverty line, and your address proof.
Keep a passport-size photograph and a mobile number handy.
How do you apply online, step by step?
Go to nsap.nic.in and look for the pension application option for disabled persons.
Fill in your personal details, disability details and bank details.
Upload your documents and submit the form. Note the application number you get.
Use the application number to track progress on the same portal.
- 1Open nsap.nic.inLook for the pension application option for disabled persons.
- 2Fill in your detailsEnter your personal details, disability details and bank details.
- 3Upload documents and submitUpload your documents, submit the form and note the application number.
- 4Track your applicationUse the application number to track progress on the same portal.
Graphic: News Anek, from the facts in this report
Can you apply offline, and how do you check payment?
Yes, you can apply at your district or block social welfare office, or through your gram panchayat.
Officials verify your papers and forward the case for approval.
To check status, use the application number on nsap.nic.in or ask your local office.
If the pension is stuck, meet the local office and ask for the reason in writing.
Important tips and warnings
Never pay any agent or person to get your pension approved. Applications are free.
Make sure your bank account is linked with Aadhaar, or payments can be delayed.
For help, contact your local social welfare office or check nsap.nic.in for the helpline details.
Frequently asked questions
Is there an age limit now?
No. The minimum age of 18 has been removed under the revised rules.
How much pension will I get?
Rs 375 a month for ages up to 79. Rs 625 a month for those aged 80 and above. Confirm the current figure on nsap.nic.in.
Is the application free?
Yes. You should never pay anyone to apply or to get approval.
Can I apply if my disability is 40 per cent?
Yes. The limit is now 40 per cent, down from 80 per cent.
Where is the money sent?
The pension is transferred directly to your bank account.
Official links
This guide is based on official scheme rules. Rules and amounts can change, so always confirm on the official website before you apply. News Anek is not a government website.
