Learn everything about the NSAP and Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) – eligibility, application process, benefits, and more. Ensure financial security in your senior years with this government initiative.
Understanding NSAP
A number of smaller programs fall under the umbrella of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), of which IGNOAPS is one of the most well-known. NSAP provides a range of benefits, such as old age, widow, and disability pensions, to people who are below the federal poverty line (BPL).
Details of NSAP
The scheme “Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)” is one of the five sub-schemes of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). Under IGNOAPS, citizens living Below Poverty Line and 60 years or above in age are eligible to apply. A monthly pension of ₹ 200 up to 79 years and ₹ 500 thereafter.
The Government of India, on 15th August 1995, introduced the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) as a fully funded Centrally Sponsored Scheme targeting the destitute, defined as any person who has little or no regular means of subsistence from his / her own source of income or through financial support from family members or other sources, to be identified by the States and UTs, with the objective of providing a basic level of financial aid. NSAP is being administered by the Ministry of Rural Development. This program is being implemented in rural areas as well as urban areas.
NSAP represents a significant step towards the fulfillment of the Directive Principles of State Policy enshrined in the Constitution of India which enjoin upon the State to undertake within its means a number of welfare measures. These are intended to secure for the citizen’s adequate means of livelihood, raise the standard of living, improve public health, provide free and compulsory education for children, etc.
The NSAP at present includes five sub-schemes as its components –
a) Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)
b) Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)
c) Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS)
d) National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS)
e) Annapurna Scheme
Objectives of NSAP –
1. Provides social assistance benefits to poor households in the case of death, maternity, or old age of the breadwinner.
2. Ensure minimum national standards, in addition to the benefits, the States are currently providing or might provide in the future.
3. Ensure uniform social protection to the beneficiaries across the country without interruption.
Expansion to cover all eligible BPL persons –
In 2007, the scheme was expanded to cover all eligible persons Below Poverty Line (BPL).
Benefits of Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)
A monthly pension of ₹ 200 up to 79 years and ₹ 500 thereafter.
Eligibility
- The applicant should be a citizen of India.
- The applicant should be living Below Poverty Line.
- The applicant should be at least 60 years of age.
Application Process
Online
- One can download UMANG App or visit website https://web.umang.gov.in/web_new/home
- The citizen can login using mobile number and OTP.
- Once logged In, citizen can search for NSAP.
- Click on “Apply Online”
- Fill the basic details, choose the mode of payment of pension, upload photo and click on “Submit”.
Documents Required
- Duly filled and self-attested Application Form (proforma given the annexures of the scheme guidelines).
- Domicile Certificate
- Residential Proof (Voter card/ Electricity Bill/Aadhar Card)
- Age Proof (Birth Certificate issued by the School last attended or Municipal authority or SHO or through Medical Board)
- Aadhar Number
- Bank Passbook
- Ration Card
- Affidavit duly attested by Judicial Magistrate/Executive Magistrate that she/he is not in receipt of any pension/ financial assistance from any other source
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does NSAP Stand For And When Was It Launched?
NSAP stands for National Social Assistance Programme. NSAP was launched on 15th August 1995.
What Is The Objective Of NSAP?
In providing social assistance benefits to poor households in the case of old age, death of the breadwinner, and maternity, the NSAP aims at ensuring minimum national standards, in addition to the benefits that the States are currently providing or might provide in future. It also aims at ensuring that social protection to the beneficiaries everywhere in the country is uniformly available without interruption.
Is there an upper limit on the income for IGNOAPS eligibility?
The eligibility is based on belonging to a BPL household. The specific income limits for BPL categorization may vary by state.
Can I apply for IGNOAPS if I am not living in India?
A: No, IGNOAPS is meant for Indian citizens residing within the country.
What happens if my application is rejected?
You will be informed about the reason for rejection. You can address the issue and re-apply if necessary.
How long does it take to receive the pension after applying?
A: The processing time can vary depending on your state. It’s advisable to check with the concerned authorities for an estimated timeframe.
Conclusion
The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) is a commendable initiative by the Government of India to support the well-being of senior citizens from underprivileged backgrounds. If you meet the eligibility criteria, applying for IGNOAPS can provide much-needed financial security during your golden years.
Remember, it’s crucial to consult your state’s Social Welfare Department for the most up-to-date information and specific application procedures