Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme gives monthly cash support to differently abled residents of Jammu and Kashmir who live below the poverty line. In 2026, the scheme continues under the Social Welfare Department with revised pension rates, so eligible persons now receive between ₹1,250 and ₹2,000 per month based on their age group.
It works under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) and is shared by the central government and the state government on a 50:50 basis. Launched on 15 August 1995, the scheme is meant for persons with severe or multiple disabilities from BPL families.
Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme - Introduction
Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme, known as IGNDPS, is managed by the Department of Social Welfare, Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Under the scheme, persons with severe or multiple disabilities who belong to the BPL category receive a monthly pension for their daily needs.
In April 2025, the Jammu and Kashmir government ordered a revision of social pensions under NSAP and the Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS), fulfilling a budget promise made by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah. From 1 April 2025, disabled persons aged 18 to 59 years get ₹1,250 per month, those aged 60 to 79 years get ₹1,500 per month, and persons aged 80 years and above get ₹2,000 per month under IGNDPS.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme |
| Launched | 15 August 1995 |
| Level | State (centrally sponsored under NSAP) |
| Beneficiary State | Jammu and Kashmir |
| Category | Social welfare and Empowerment, Health and Wellness |
| Target Beneficiaries | Persons with severe or multiple disabilities from BPL families |
| Sub Category | Pension, Financial assistance |
| Benefit Type | Cash, DBT |
| Pension Amount 2026 | ₹1,250 to ₹2,000 per month based on age group |
| Nodal Department | Department of Social Welfare, Jammu and Kashmir |
| Official Website | jkdswdj.jk.gov.in |
Benefits
Eligible persons receive a monthly pension that is now revised by age group. The department pays the amount directly to the bank account of the beneficiary through DBT payment, so the money reaches the person without any middleman.
Besides regular income support, the pension helps BPL families manage treatment costs, daily needs, and better living conditions. The pension is given for life as long as the person remains eligible under the scheme.
Eligibility
Before applying, check the eligibility conditions below to see who can get the pension.
- You must be a permanent resident of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir.
- You should have a recognized severe or multiple disability with a valid disability certificate.
- Your age must be between 18 and 79 years. Persons aged 80 years and above are also covered under the revised pension rates.
- You should belong to a Below Poverty Line family.
- You should not be receiving any other pension benefit under a different social security scheme.
Application Process
Applications under Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme are submitted offline through the Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO). Follow these steps to apply.
STEP 1 - Visit your local Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO) office during official working hours and collect the prescribed application form free of cost.
STEP 2 - Fill in all required fields accurately. Attach a recent passport-sized photograph and include all required self-attested documents.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed form to the same TSWO office and ask for an acknowledgement receipt with the submission date and reference number.
After submission, the TSWO reviews your form and forwards it to the District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO). A district-level sanctioning committee headed by the Director General, Social Welfare Department, Kashmir, checks the application and sanctions the pension.
Documents
Keep these documents ready before you fill up the application form so that the checking process is smooth.
- Aadhaar Card for identity verification.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Identity proof like Voter ID card or driving license.
- Valid disability certificate issued by the competent authority.
- Proof of age.
- BPL card or relevant ration card.
- Caste certificate, if applicable.
- Address proof.
- Bank passbook or official account details for DBT payment.
References
Guidelines (Page No. 5) | Official Website | Application Form | IGNDPS Scheme Details | Department of Social Welfare Jammu and Kashmir | Disability pension increase news
FAQ's
What is the primary goal of Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme?
The main goal is to give financial stability to differently abled persons from BPL families so they can live more securely.
Who can apply for this pension?
You can apply if you are a resident of Jammu and Kashmir, aged 18 to 79 years, have a recognized disability, and come from a BPL household.
What is the pension amount in 2026?
From 1 April 2025, disabled persons aged 18 to 59 get ₹1,250 per month, those aged 60 to 79 get ₹1,500 per month, and persons aged 80 years and above get ₹2,000 per month.
How do I submit my application?
You should collect the application form from your local Tehsil Social Welfare Officer and submit the completed document to their office.
What documents are required?
You generally need residency proof, a valid disability certificate, BPL proof, bank details, and identity and age proof.
Can people over 79 apply?
Yes, persons aged 80 years and above are covered under the revised pension rates and receive ₹2,000 per month under IGNDPS.
Is the pension amount fixed?
No, the government revised the pension rates from April 2025 and has said it is also working to raise the disability pension further to ₹3,000 per month.
How is the money paid?
Funds are sent directly to your bank account through DBT payment.
Where can I get help with my application?
You can contact your local Tehsil Social Welfare Officer for any guidance or support regarding your application.