NEWS: Union Cabinet approved continuation of NSAP for FY 2026–27 to 2030–31 with an outlay of ₹53,428 crore, renaming it PMSSY.

ABOUT

• Launched: 15 August 1995 as the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP).
• Ministry: Ministry of Rural Development.
• Constitutional basis: Article 41 — public assistance in cases such as old age, disability and unemployment.
• Provides non-contributory social security assistance to eligible vulnerable BPL households.

KEY FEATURES:

• Covers elderly persons, widows, persons with disabilities and bereaved households.
• Sub-schemes renamed as:

- Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana

- Pradhan Mantri Vidhawa Pension Yojana

- Pradhan Mantri Divyangjan Pension Yojana

- Pradhan Mantri Parivar Labh Yojana

• Disability eligibility threshold aligned with the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016: 40% benchmark disability.
• Removes the minimum age requirement for eligible persons with disabilities.
• Divyangjan assistance: ₹375 per month for ages 0–79 and ₹625 for ages 80+.
• Reported coverage: approximately 3.20 crore beneficiaries.

SIGNIFICANCE:

• Strengthens social security, income support and dignity for vulnerable groups.
• Supports poverty reduction and inclusive development.