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Centre proposed hike in pensions for weaker sections
Why is it in the news?
- The Rural Development Ministry has proposed that the monthly pensions of the elderly poor, disabled and widows be increased from the current Rs.200 to Rs.800.
- For those above the age of 80, the proposal is to increase the pension from Rs.500 to Rs.1,200 a month.
More in the news
- The proposed hike would have an additional annual cost implication of Rs.18,000 crore, to the Finance Ministry to be considered for inclusion in the interim Budget to be presented on February 1.
- If the proposal is announced, the Ministry will then move the Cabinet to approve the increase in pensions.
- Separately, a study has been launched to consider doubling the number of people covered by the scheme, a promise originally made in last year’s Budget.
- Discussions are also being held with the State governments on a proposal to merge the Central and State pension schemes.
- The Centre has been considering various welfare measures to benefit rural Indians and farming communities.
- Senior government officials have mentioned income support, interest waivers and increased access to credit as some of the other measures being considered.
Source
The Hindu.