(a) whether any pension scheme is being implemented by the Government for widows, old age and unemployed persons living Below Poverty Line (BPL);
(b) if so, the details thereof;
(c) the quantum of funds allocated, sanctioned and expenditure incurred under the scheme(s) during the last three years and the current year, State/UT-wise; and
(d) whether the Government proposes to double the allocation made thereunder and if so, the time by which it is likely to be implemented?
MINISTER OF STATE IN THE MINISTRY OF RURAL DEVELOPMENT
(SHRI RAM KRIPAL YADAV)
(a) & (b). 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.The coverage of NSAP does not extend to unemployed persons.
(c): State/UT-wise details of funds allocated, sanctioned and expenditure incurred under the scheme(s) during the last three years and the current yearare at Annexure.
(d): No time has been set to enhance the pension rates admissible to beneficiaries under current dispensation of National Social Assistance Programme(NSAP).
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