Government Strengthens Social Security Net Across State; 8.42 Lakh Beneficiaries Covered.
Nearly one lakh new beneficiaries added in three years as welfare reforms expand reach and inclusivity.
Shimla:
The State Government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has significantly strengthened the social security framework, placing inclusive growth, welfare and social justice at the centre of governance. Through a series of progressive and people-centric reforms, the government has ensured that financial assistance reaches the most vulnerable sections of society in a timely, transparent and dignified manner.
A major reform introduced by the government was the removal of the income ceiling and the mandatory Gram Sabha approval for widowed, deserted and single women, as well as for persons with 40 to 69 percent disability seeking social security pensions. This landmark decision has simplified procedures and eliminated long-standing administrative hurdles, particularly benefiting women and persons with disabilities who often face challenges in accessing welfare schemes.
As a result, nearly 8.42 lakh beneficiaries across the state are currently availing social security pensions under various categories. These include 1,04,740 beneficiaries under the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension, 5,04,253 under the Old Age Pension, 25,414 under the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension, 1,26,808 under the Widow, Destitute and Single Woman Pension, 1,340 under the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension and 78,291 under the Disability Relief Allowance. Over the past three years alone, 99,799 new pension cases have been approved, reflecting the government’s sustained efforts to expand the social safety net and ensure that no eligible individual is left out.
Enhancing the adequacy of financial support has been another key priority of the Sukhu-led government. From February 2024, the monthly pension for women up to the age of 69 years has been increased to Rs. 1,500, significantly improving their financial security and independence. The Chief Minister has also directed concerned departments to expedite the release of pending payments under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojana, with special focus on remote and tribal areas such as Pangi, Lahaul-Spiti, Dodra Kwar and Kupvi, underscoring the government’s commitment to regional equity.
Special emphasis has been placed on the welfare of Divyaangjans through a comprehensive and inclusive support system. The State Government provides disability relief allowance without any income limit or conditionalities, ensuring universal access. Social security pensions for persons with disabilities range between Rs. 1,150 and Rs. 1,700 per month. In the education sector, Divyaang students are being supported through monthly scholarships ranging from Rs. 625 to Rs. 5,000, without any income restriction. Under this initiative, 3,100 students have benefited, with an expenditure of Rs. 3.77 crore.
Addressing the social and emotional dimensions of welfare, the government also provides marriage incentive grants ranging from Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 50,000 for marriages involving Divyaang persons. So far, 212 beneficiaries have received assistance amounting to Rs. 74.49 lakh. Additionally, Divyaangjans and elderly residents of special homes and old-age institutions are provided an Utsav Anudan of Rs. 500 per person on major festivals to ensure inclusivity during celebrations. Under this scheme, 2,128 Divyaang beneficiaries have received financial assistance totalling Rs. 75.43 lakh.
To further strengthen governance and service delivery, the Chief Minister has stressed the adoption of modern information technology-based systems for beneficiary identification, approval and pension disbursement. This digital transformation has enhanced transparency, accuracy and ensured timely release of benefits.
Overall, the welfare reforms and initiatives undertaken by the State Government mark a decisive shift towards a compassionate and inclusive model of governance. By removing eligibility barriers, enhancing financial support and prioritising dignity and ease of access, the government under Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu is reinforcing social security not merely as assistance, but as a right—bringing the promise of welfare closer to every household in Himachal Pradesh.
