Patna: The Bihar government has significantly expanded its social security pension coverage, with one in every 12 residents now benefitting from financial assistance under six different schemes. The move comes as part of the state’s broader push to support the elderly, widows, disabled individuals, and other vulnerable groups.
During a recent review meeting of Mahila Samvad chaired by Chief Minister Nitish Kumar, the government announced a 175% increase in pension amounts across all schemes. The minimum monthly pension has now been raised to Rs 1,100.
Currently, 1.11 crore people across the state are receiving pensions under these programmes. Of the six schemes, three—Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension, Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension, and Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension—are supported jointly with the central government, with Bihar contributing 25% to 50% of the funding. The remaining three—Lakshmibai Social Security Pension, Bihar Disability Pension, and Chief Minister Old Age Pension—are fully funded by the state.
With the pension hike, Bihar’s annual financial burden for the central schemes will rise from Rs 732.32 crore to Rs 3,508.90 crore. For the three state-funded schemes, the cost will increase from Rs 3,308.25 crore to Rs 4,040.58 crore. Overall, this brings an additional annual expenditure of Rs 9,202.84 crore to the state treasury.
Officials said the initiative reflects the government’s commitment to ensuring a dignified life for underprivileged citizens by integrating them into the mainstream through sustained financial support.
