Since April 2025, there are reports of major changes in pension schemes. The government has decided to increase the pension amount for old, widow and disabled citizens. This step has been taken keeping in mind the cost of inflation and rising lifestyle. The objective of this scheme is to provide economic security to the weaker sections of the society and help them live their lives in a respectable manner.
In this article, we will know in detail which states are part of this scheme, what kind of pension amount has been increased, and how can it be availed. Also, the rules of new pension schemes and eligibility criteria will also be explained.
Main details of pension scheme
The government has announced an increase in pension amount from April 2025. This is a relief news for old age, widow and disabled pensioners. Below is a table that presents a brief description of the scheme:
| Plan details | Information |
| Applied date | 1 April 2025 |
| Beneficiary class | Older, widow, disabled |
| Monthly pension amount | ₹ 3000 to ₹ 10,000 (According to category) |
| State | Rajasthan, Chhattisgarh, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Haryana, Punjab, Delhi |
| Application process | Both online and offline medium |
| Eligibility age | Older: 60 years or more; Widow: 18 years or more; Divyang: 18 years or more |
| Annual income limit | Less than ₹ 1,00,000 |
| Financial source | Joint contribution of central and state government |
Increase in pension amount
The government has increased the monthly pension amount for various categories. According to this:
- Old age pension: increased from ₹ 3000 to ₹ 4500 per month.
- Widow Pension: Increased from ₹ 2500 to ₹ 6000 per month.
- Divyang Pension: Increased from ₹ 4000 to ₹ 10,000 per month.
Apart from this, inflation relief has also been increased by 50% to provide additional assistance to the beneficiaries.
Pension details as per states
Details of new pension schemes implemented in major states below:
- Rajasthan: Old age pension has been increased from ₹ 1000 to ₹ 1150. There are different provisions for special categories such as widow and divorced women.
- Chhattisgarh: Dearness allowance (DA) has been increased from 46% to 50%. Old age pension will be given ₹ 3000 per month and disabled pension will be given up to ₹ 4500 per month.
- Uttar Pradesh: Widow and old age pension has been increased from ₹ 2500 to ₹ 3000. The application process has been simplified.
- Haryana: The monthly amount for disabled citizens has been fixed at ₹ 4000.
- Delhi: Old age pension has been increased from ₹ 2000 to ₹ 2500. Digital verification has been made mandatory.
Unified Pension Scheme (UPS): a new beginning
From 1 April 2025, the Central Government has announced the implementation of Unified Pension Scheme (UPS). The scheme is made for government employees and its purpose is to provide financial security to them after retirement.
The main features of UPS:
- Minimum Monthly Pension: ₹ 10,000
- Guaranteed Family Pension: 60% of final salary
- Employer Contribution: Increased from 14% to 18.5%
- Application Process: Both online and offline medium
Benefits of UPS:
- 50% guaranteed pension of average salary on retirement.
- Family pension for family safety.
- Ensure transparency by digital payment system.
Changes in eligibility criteria
The government has simplified eligibility criteria so that more people can take advantage of it. The major changes are as follows:
- The annual family income limit has now been fixed ₹ 1,00,000.
- The minimum limit of disability is now 40% to 40% (earlier it was 60%).
- Their pension will not be closed on the remarriage of widow women.
How to apply?
The application process has been made easier to avail the pension scheme:
- Online application: You can fill the form by visiting the official website of the government.
- Offline application: Application can be made by visiting the nearest panchayat office or district administration office.
- Necessary documents:
- Aadhar card
- Bank account statement
- Income certificate
- Disability Certificate (for Divyang)
Direct profit transfer (DBT)
The pension amount will now be sent directly to the bank account of the beneficiaries. This will reduce corruption and ensure transparency.
Important questions and answers
Will this scheme be applicable in all states?
No, at present, this scheme will be applicable in only seven states.
Can private sector employees also take advantage of this?
No, this scheme is limited to government employees and social security classes only.
Will the outstanding pension also get?
Yes, people whose old pension was pending will be given the outstanding amount with interest.
conclusion
The new pension schemes to be implemented from April 2025 will provide great relief to the weaker sections of the society. This step of giving financial security to old age, widow and disabled citizens is commendable. Unified Pension Scheme will also prove beneficial for government employees.
Disclaimer
This article provides information based on government announcements. Please confirm from the concerned government website or office before availing any scheme.
