What this scheme offers
NSAP is an umbrella programme with four components. The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) pays BPL persons aged 60+ a monthly pension (higher for those 80+). The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) supports BPL widows. The Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) supports BPL persons with severe disabilities. The National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) gives a one-time ₹20,000 payment to a BPL household on the death of its primary breadwinner. An Annapurna component also provides 10 kg of free foodgrain monthly to eligible elderly persons not otherwise receiving a pension. Most states supplement the central pension amount with their own top-up.
Who is eligible
- IGNOAPS: BPL individuals aged 60 and above.
- IGNWPS: BPL widows, generally aged 40 and above (exact age band can vary by state notification).
- IGNDPS: BPL persons aged 18–79 with severe or multiple disabilities.
- NFBS: BPL households, on the death of the primary earning member aged 18–59.
- All components require the household to be identified as Below Poverty Line by local authorities.
Documents required
- Aadhaar card
- BPL certificate / ration card
- Age proof (for old age pension)
- Disability certificate (for disability pension)
- Bank or post office savings account passbook
How to apply
- Approach your Gram Panchayat or Municipality — they play an active role in identifying and registering eligible beneficiaries.
- Submit the NSAP application form along with your BPL, age/disability and bank documents at the Block Development Office.
- The application is verified locally and forwarded for approval.
- Once approved, the pension is credited monthly via Direct Benefit Transfer to your Aadhaar-linked bank or post office account.
- You can also check status and beneficiary details on the NSAP portal (nsap.nic.in) or via the "SAMBAL" mobile app.