Pension: The social security pension in Himachal Pradesh will now be disbursed on a monthly basis rather than quarterly, as initiated by the state government. This transition has resulted in a two-month delay for pension payments scheduled for 2025.
Currently, there are 824,929 beneficiaries receiving social security pensions in Himachal. The existing system provides advance payments twice a year in tribal regions, while non-tribal areas receive quarterly payments in advance. The social security pension comprises two components: the National Social Security Pension Scheme and state-funded social security pension schemes, which include pensions for the elderly, widows, and individuals with disabilities.
Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to beneficiaries
The Comptroller and Auditor General (CAG) audit has consistently recommended that states implement monthly payments through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to beneficiaries’ accounts instead of quarterly disbursements. Himachal Pradesh has resolved to adopt this recommendation, and the Chief Secretary has requested the necessary documentation from the relevant department.
The Empowerment of SC, OBC, Minority, and Specially Abled Department is responsible for administering social security pensions in Himachal, distributing a total of ₹1,411 crore annually. Consequently, the state is moving forward with this new system; however, the implementation process has caused delays in pension payments for January and February.
According to media reports, the distribution of beneficiaries in Himachal is as follows:
National Social Security Pension Schemes:
– Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension: 104,542
– Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension: 25,354
– Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension: 1,319
State Social Security Pension Schemes:
– Old Age Pension: 492,519
– Widow or Single Woman Pension: 123,319
– Disability Relief Allowance: 76,809
– Rehabilitation Allowance to Leprosy Patients: 1,018
– Pension for Transgenders: 49
Total Pensioners: 824,929.