Union Cabinet Extends NSAP and Revises Disability Pension Norms

On 14 October 2026, the Union Cabinet approved ₹53,428 crore to continue the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) for five years, from 2026–27 to 2030–31. The programme is set to be renamed the Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana and is expected to benefit 3.20 crore people across 36 states and Union territories.

Approval and coverage

NSAP is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme administered by the Ministry of Rural Development. Launched on 15 August 1995, it provides social assistance to poor households, including older people, widows and persons with disabilities, and families that lose their primary breadwinner. The Cabinet-approved outlay covers the five-year continuation period beginning in 2026–27.

Disability pension eligibility and assistance

The minimum disability threshold for pension eligibility has been reduced from 80% to 40%. The minimum age requirement has also been removed, making people with qualifying disabilities eligible from birth. Under the revised rates, beneficiaries aged 0–79 years will receive ₹375 per month, compared with ₹200 previously. Beneficiaries aged 80 years and above will receive ₹625 per month, up from ₹500.

The Cabinet retained existing pension arrangements for senior citizens and widows, as well as the family benefit scheme. Detailed guidelines on eligibility, beneficiary numbers and assistance rates are to be issued and implemented within three months of the approval.

NSAP components and renamed schemes

The programme’s old-age pension component will be called the Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana, while its widow pension component will be called the Pradhan Mantri Vidhawa Pension Yojana. The disability pension component will be called the Pradhan Mantri Divyangjan Pension Yojana. The National Family Benefit Scheme will be renamed the Pradhan Mantri Parivar Labh Yojana.

Important Facts for Exams

• The National Social Assistance Programme began on 15 August 1995.
• The revised disability pension threshold is 40%, reduced from 80%.
• The approved continuation period runs from 2026–27 to 2030–31.
• The National Family Benefit Scheme provides assistance to families that lose their primary breadwinner.

The revised disability pension age eligibility begins at birth, while the higher monthly rate applies from age 80.