There are many schemes of the Central Government in which you can invest to secure your future, and Atal Pension Yojana (APY) is one of the best options among them. This scheme has won the trust of more than 8 crore people so far, which shows its popularity and reliability. The most special thing about this scheme is that you can start with a very low investment and get a fixed pension of up to Rs 5,000 every month after the age of 60. It is especially great for those who do not work in the organized sector or whose income is low, as it provides them with financial security in old age.

What is Atal Pension Yojana

Atal Pension Yojana was launched with the aim of bringing a universal social security system for all citizens of India, especially the poor, deprived, and unorganized sector workers. It is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme, which means that you contribute to it at your own will. Under this scheme, you get a guaranteed monthly pension of Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000 after the age of 60, depending on the amount you contribute. This pension will be available throughout your life.

If, unfortunately, the subscriber dies, then their spouse continues to get the same pension as the subscriber. And if both the subscriber and their spouse pass away, the entire amount deposited is returned to the nominee. It acts as a strong security shield for your family.

Who can invest

Atal Pension Yojana is open to all Indian citizens whose age is between 18 and 40 years. However, there are some exceptions. Those who are or have been income taxpayers cannot join this scheme.

Process of enrollment in Atal Pension Yojana

Joining this scheme is very simple. There are just a few basic conditions to be fulfilled:

You must have a savings account in any bank or post office.

Your Aadhaar card and mobile number must also be linked to your bank account. This is important for identity verification and communication.

The contribution amount in this scheme is automatically deducted from your account through the auto-debit facility, so you don’t have to worry about making payments every month.

Amazing progress of APY in the current financial year

This scheme, run by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA), has made tremendous progress. So far in the current financial year (2025-26), 39 lakh new subscribers have joined it, and with this, the total number of subscribers of this scheme has crossed the figure of eight crore! This number shows how millions of people are relying on this scheme to secure their old age.

Promise of a secure future

APY is not just a pension scheme but a solid insurance against an uncertain future. It provides security to crores of Indians, especially those in the unorganised sector who have no other social security net. Small monthly contributions create a large corpus, which is received as a fixed monthly income after 60 years. This ensures that you do not have to depend on anyone in your old age and can live a respectable life.