Question : OLD AGE PENSION

(a) the details of old age pension schemes available at present in the country , State- wise;

(b) the number of old age pension beneficiaries at present, State-wise ;

(c) whether the Government have fixed the numerical ceiling for the beneficiaries under the National Old Age Pension Scheme ;

(d) if so, the reasons therefor ;

(e) whether the Government propose to revise the said ceiling in case the number of beneficiaries in States goes behind the maximum fixed limit in future ;

(f) whether it is also proposed to hike the old age pension ;
(g) if so , the details in this regard ;
(h) the time by which the ceilings are likely to be revised and implemented ; and
(i) if not , the reasons therefor ?

MINISTER OF STATE FOR RURAL DEVELOPMENT (SHRI A. RAJA)

(a) The Central Government is implementing the National Old Age Pension Scheme (NOAPS) in the entire country since 1995. Under the NOAPS , pensions are provided to destitutes aged 65 ye-ars and above. NOAPS is a part of the National Social Assistance Programme and is entirely funded by the Government of India. Some State Governments are also providing old age pensions from their resources.

(b) During the current financial year ( 2000-2001), the budgetary provision for NOAPS is Rs. 447 crores. The present corresponding number of beneficiaries against this allocation is 47,75,641. The State-wise distribution of the beneficiaries (1999-2000) is contained in the Annexure.

(c) & (d) The Government of India has fixed the numerical ceilings keeping in view the target population i.e. indigent persons of 65 years of age and above . The NSAP Guidelines lay down certain parameters such as projected population of the States/U.T.s during the reference year, poverty ratio based on Modified Expert Group Report for 1993-94 and ratio of 65 years age group in the total population. The numerical ceilings represent the long term targets, defining the upper limit of the financial entitlement of States/UTs.

(e) No, Sir.

(f) No, Sir;

(g) Does not arise.

(h) & (i) The ceilings have only recently been revised and there is no proposal at present, for any upward revision.