Challenges of the Scheme
- Inadequate Cash Transfer: The old-age pension scheme’s payouts continue to be low. The contribution by state governments has either remained small or nonexistent, and the entitlement amount under the central government system has essentially stayed unchanged since 2007. Both at the center and in the states, there are a number of shortcomings in the delivery of old-age benefits.
- Use of Old Data: The government still uses the 2001 census and poverty rates from 2004–2005 to select recipients despite having access to more recent data.
Nearly 80 million people are reportedly eligible for the old-age pension. However, only about 25 million people receive a pension. - Gender-Based Exclusions: According to the Longitudinal Age Survey of India 2017–18, more males than women are receiving the IGNOAPS in numerous states. This is despite the fact that in several of these states, the proportion of elderly women living alone is substantially larger than that of males.
Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme
Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme is a part of the National Social Assistance Program (NSAP) which is implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development. It is a non-contributory scheme that provides a monthly income to citizens or refugees over the age of 60 who do not have another source of income.
The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) is a government program that provides financial support and social security to eligible participants. It benefits senior citizens in India who are below the poverty line (BPL).