Question : Features of NSAP

(a) the salient features of schemes implemented under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) along with the mechanism put in place for implementation of these schemes;

(b) whether financial and physical targets of these schemes are being achieved;

(c) if so, the details thereof for the last three years and the current year, State/ UT-wise;

(d) whether any concrete steps have been taken/proposed to be taken to ensure effective implementation of NSAP; and

(e) if so, the details thereof?

MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT
(SHRI RAM KRIPAL YADAV)

(a): Under National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) following five welfare components are being administered: a) Old Age Pension, b) Widow Pension, c) Disability Pension, d) Family Benefit Scheme and e) Annapurna Scheme.

In respect of first three schemes targeted beneficiaries are provided with monthly financial assistance ranging between Rs.200-500 as the case may be. Under National Family Benefit scheme below poverty line (BPL) households are entitled to a one-time lump-sum amount of money to the tune of Rs.20,000/- on the death of primary breadwinner aged between 18 and 59 years whereas under Annapurna scheme, 10KG of food grain per month is provided free of cost to those senior citizens which are otherwise eligible but are not receiving the old age pension.

Schemes under NSAP are Centrally Sponsored Scheme and are implemented by the State/UTs. Identification of beneficiaries, sanction and disbursement of benefit under the schemes is done by the State/UTs.

(b) & (c): State/UT-wise funds under the schemes are released by the Government, on the basis of reports/requirement submitted. Details of financial and physical targetsachieved under these schemes during last three years and current year are at Annexure.

(d) & (e): The implementation of the schemes under NSAP is reviewed through periodic Performance Review Committee (PRC) and Nodal Officers Meetings. Schemes are also monitored by National Level Monitors (NLMs) and through Area Officers Visits.For timely monthly disbursement of pension, instructions have been issued to the State/ Union Territories for utilization of Public Financial Management System gateway for disbursement of assistance.


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