AI SummaryIndira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme provides a monthly pension to elderly citizens aged 60 years and above from Below Poverty Line families in Bihar. The scheme is a part of the National Social Assistance Programme run by the central government and is implemented in the state by the Social Welfare Department.
Eligible senior citizens receive the pension directly into their bank accounts through the Direct Benefit Transfer channel. The scheme continues to operate in 2026 and applications are accepted through the block offices and the online service portal of Bihar.
Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme - Introduction
Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme supports elderly people in Bihar by giving them a steady monthly income. The scheme was started in 1995 under the National Social Assistance Programme and was renamed as the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme in November 2007. It is a centrally sponsored scheme designed for older persons who are 60 years or above.
The Social Welfare Department of the government of Bihar manages the rollout of this scheme across the state. It serves as a key safety support for senior citizens who belong to families living below the poverty line, helping them maintain their dignity and independence.
Main Aim: The scheme will offer social security to elderly people from poor families by providing regular cash support to improve their quality of life.
| Key Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme |
| Level | Centrally sponsored (implemented in Bihar) |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Bihar |
| Category | Social welfare and empowerment |
| Benefit Type | Cash pension |
| DBT Enabled | Yes |
| Main Department | Social Welfare Department |
| Department Running the Scheme | Social Welfare Department, government of Bihar |
Benefits
Eligible senior citizens receive a monthly pension based on their age group. The money is sent directly to the bank account of the beneficiary through the Direct Benefit Transfer channel using the public financial management system, so there is no middleman involved.
| Age Group | Monthly Pension Amount |
|---|---|
| 60 to 79 years | ₹400 |
| 80 years or above | ₹500 |
Note: Since this is a DBT process, bank account details should be linked correctly to receive payments on time without any problem.
Eligibility
To qualify for this pension, the following requirements should be met:
- Applicant should be a permanent resident of Bihar.
- Applicant should be a senior citizen aged 60 years or above.
- Applicant should belong to a Below Poverty Line family.
- Applicant should not be receiving any other pension or social security benefit from the government.
For example, if Ramesh is 62 years old, lives in Bihar, holds a BPL card and does not receive any other state pension, he can apply for this scheme.
Application Process
The application process is simple and can be completed at the local block office. Steps are given below.
STEP 1 - Visit the local block office and go to the Right to Public Service counter. Submit the duly filled and signed prescribed application form along with all required attachments.
STEP 2 - Collect the acknowledgment receipt right after submitting the documents. Keep this safe for tracking the application status.
STEP 3 - Keep an eye on the mobile or email for updates regarding approval or rejection of the application.
STEP 4 - Once approved, visit the same Right to Public Service counter with the original receipt and identity proof to collect the Sanction Order.
Helpdesk and Grievance: If any issue comes up, the beneficiary can visit the SSPMIS Portal to register a complaint. A toll-free number 18003456262 is also available for free support. The local block development officer or the sub-divisional office can also be contacted under the Bihar Public Grievance Redressal Rights Act.
Documents
The following documents should be prepared before visiting the counter:
- Copy of the Aadhaar card.
- Recent passport-size photograph.
- Valid identity proof such as Voter ID card or Driving License.
- Valid residence proof and age proof.
- BPL certificate or relevant BPL card documents.
- Caste certificate, if applicable.
- Bank passbook or official bank account details for DBT.
References
Official NSAP Portal | SSPMIS Portal | Scheme Details
FAQ's
What is the aim of the scheme?
The aim is to provide social security and cash support to elderly people from poor families across Bihar.
Who is eligible for the scheme?
Applicants should be Bihar residents, aged 60 years or above, from the BPL category, and should not be receiving another government pension.
How much pension will I get?
Beneficiaries between 60 to 79 years receive ₹400 monthly, while those 80 years or older receive ₹500 monthly.
How is the money paid?
The pension is transferred directly into the bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer mechanism.
How do I apply?
Submit the application form and required documents at the local block office through the Right to Public Service counter.
Where can I get my Sanction Order?
It can be collected from the Right to Public Service counter where the application was submitted by showing the acknowledgment receipt and ID card.
What if my application is rejected?
The reason will be shared with the applicant. The issues should be fixed and the documents can be re-submitted to the authorities.
Can both men and women apply?
Yes, all elderly citizens aged 60 and above who meet the BPL criteria can apply.
What if I do not receive my pension?
A complaint can be lodged at the grievance redressal portal or the helpdesk can be called at 18003456262.
Can I collect two pensions at once?
No, applicants are not eligible if they are already receiving pension benefits from another social security scheme.