Old-age pension increased

The Cabinet today approved an increase in pension under the National Old Age Pension Scheme from Rs 75 to Rs 200 per beneficiary per month for destitute persons aged 65 or above.

Briefing reporters, Information and Broadcasting Minister P R Dasmunsi said, "A sum of Rs 1,430 crore for this purpose had been provided in the Budget 2006-07 as additional allocation. This increase will be effective from April 1, 2006."

The NOAPS is part of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), a programme funded by the Centre. The NSAP had come into effect on 15th August, 1995.