India raises disability pension to Rs 375, scraps age restrictions

The Central government has overhauled its disability pension scheme, raising the monthly payment to Rs 375 and fundamentally expanding access to benefits through revised eligibility criteria. Under the reformed framework, individuals with disabilities rated at 40 per cent or above now qualify for assistance, a substantial reduction from the previous 80 per cent threshold.

The removal of age restrictions represents another significant change, allowing persons with disabilities of all ages to apply for the scheme. Previously, age-based limitations had excluded certain demographics from accessing the programme, creating barriers for younger and older beneficiaries alike.

The enhanced pension amount and liberalised criteria are expected to extend coverage to substantially more disabled persons across the country. Government officials indicate the restructured scheme aims to provide more comprehensive social security support to individuals managing disabilities, with the lower threshold acknowledging varying degrees of functional limitation.

Eligibility under the revamped programme requires individuals to meet the revised disability assessment standards set by medical authorities. The scheme represents part of ongoing government efforts to strengthen social safety nets for marginalised populations, though implementation details regarding application processes and verification procedures remain under review.