Patna: Bihar government has credited the first installment of its enhanced social security pension to more than 1.11–1.12 crore beneficiaries, after chief minister Nitish Kumar raised the monthly amount to Rs 1,100 from Rs 400 and ordered timely monthly transfers through direct benefit transfer (DBT). The roll-out involved a statewide transfer of roughly Rs 1,227.27 crore across six pension schemes covering senior citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities.
The increase, cleared in late June, took effect for the July cycle and is part of a broader social protection push that the government says centers dignity and inclusion for vulnerable groups. Officials said women constitute a slight majority of beneficiaries, reflecting the administration’s focus on gender-inclusive welfare.
Nitish also instructed departments to ensure the pension lands in bank accounts by the 10th of each month, aiming to make payouts predictable for low-income households. The expansion in coverage and benefit size substantially lifts the annual outlay and is being celebrated locally as a “pension festival” marking the first month of higher payments.
