GOVERNMENT SCHEME BENEFITS 51 LAKH OLD AGE PENSIONERS

The Yogi government has been working tirelessly towards the upliftment of poor, needy women, children, senior citizens, etc. in a war footing and associating the people from all sections of the society towards the benefits of it’s various schemes. No doubt, as a result the Uttar Pradesh government has created a record by providing old age pension to 51 lakh people in the state. The figure is over 7 lakh above than the target given by the central government of 43.45 lakhs. This is the highest figure in the state till date where eligible beneficiaries are getting pension of Rs 500 per month. The digital transfer of money has not only brought in a transparency in the system but has also given speed to the process with online applications and their execution. In 2017, there were about 36 lakh such pensioners while the present Yogi government has added 15 lakh new pensioners. The Government has spent an amount of Rs 3,000 crore, which is an all-time high in providing financial assistance.

ORGANISATION OF CAMPS

Previously these senior citizens had to move here and there to avail the benefit. Camps were organised by the State Government after the strict instructions of the chief minister to cover the gap and include people who were left out earlier. As per a survey conducted by the rural development department it was found that about nine lakh people were left out. Post which a special campaign was run with a timeline resulting in addition of 15 lakh new pensioners.

OVER ACHIEVEMENT OF TARGET

The central government had given a target of 43.45 lakh under the scheme which was not achieved by previous government.

The Yogi government has now reached the figure of 51,21,454 beneficiaries thereby over achieving the targets and creating a record. Before 2017, Rs 300 per month was being given to the beneficiaries which has now been increased by the present government to Rs 500 per month.

Approx Rs 1,500 crore was being spent before the addition of 15 lakh new pensioners which has now been doubled to Rs 3,000 crore. During the covid-19 lockdown period, an additional amount of Rs 500 crore was spent when the government gave an additional amout Rs 1,000 to the elders.

EAST UP TOPS THE LIST

The districts of eastern Uttar Pradesh have topped the list. Azamgarh stood first by increasing 62,052 people, followed by Ballia 55,676 people and Ambedkar Nagar which added 49,621 eligible people in the state.