Delhi, October 14: The Central Government on Wednesday approved a proposal for continuation of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) with total outlay of Rs 53,428 crore for five years from 2026-27 to 2030-31

The decision was taken during a Union Cabinet meeting held under the chairmanship of Prime Minister Nareandra Modi in New Delhi.

The proposal, moved by the Department of Rural Development, includes renaming of the scheme & sub-schemes, revision in eligibility criteria, coverage and rate of assistance for divyangjan pension and continuation of pension schemes for old aged & widows and family benefit scheme in its existing form.

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According to a cabinet note, amount of assistance under divyangjan pension scheme will now be Rs 375 for the age group of 0-79 yrs and Rs 625 for 80 yrs and above.

The criteria for benchmark disability under the scheme will be 40% against 80% at present. Minimum age criterion for the disability pension will now be since birth.

Pension schemes for old aged and widows and family benefit scheme will continue in its existing form.

A total of 3.20 crore beneficiaries across all the 36 States/UTs will benefit from this approval.

Guidelines consisting of the change in eligibility criteria, beneficiaries and rate of assistance under divyangjan pension will be issued and implemented within three months.