NSAP currently supports around 3.09 crore beneficiaries across India
Launched on 15 August 1995, the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) is a fully funded Centrally Sponsored Scheme implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development to provide social security assistance to citizens living below the poverty line (BPL). Applicable in both rural and urban areas, NSAP reflects the Government of India’s commitment to the Directive Principles of State Policy by ensuring minimum financial security to vulnerable populations.
The programme addresses income insecurity faced by the elderly, widows, persons with disabilities, and families affected by the loss of a primary breadwinner. Over the years, NSAP has evolved into a key pillar of India’s social welfare architecture, offering not just pensions but also food security support. By targeting the most marginalised sections of society, NSAP aims to preserve dignity, reduce destitution, and create a basic safety net for millions who lack stable sources of income or social protection.
Beneficiary Coverage and National Reach
NSAP currently supports around 3.09 crore beneficiaries across India, with scheme-wise caps allocated to each State and Union Territory to ensure equitable distribution. The programme’s wide reach demonstrates its importance in addressing poverty-induced vulnerability at scale. Elderly citizens form the largest beneficiary group, followed by widows, persons with disabilities, and households facing sudden economic shocks. In addition, food security is ensured for pension-eligible senior citizens who are not receiving cash assistance. The following table presents the scheme-wise beneficiary coverage under NSAP, highlighting its expansive footprint across social categories.
Table 1: Scheme-wise Beneficiary Coverage under NSAP
| Scheme | Number of Beneficiaries (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| IGNOAPS (Old Age Pension) | 221 lakh |
| IGNWPS (Widow Pension) | 67 lakh |
| IGNDPS (Disability Pension) | 8.33 lakh |
| NFBS (Family Benefit) | 3.5 lakh |
| Annapurna Scheme | 8.31 lakh |
| Total | 3.09 crore |
Objectives and Implementation Framework
The core objective of NSAP is to provide a basic level of social security to the most vulnerable citizens, including the elderly, widows, and divyangjan, enabling them to meet essential living needs with dignity. Implementation follows a decentralised approach, with Gram Panchayats and Urban Local Bodies playing a critical role in identifying eligible beneficiaries.
States and Union Territories have flexibility in executing the schemes through appropriate departments, while a designated Nodal Secretary oversees coordination and compliance at the state level. Regular monitoring is ensured through mandatory quarterly progress reports, and non-compliance can lead to the withholding of central funds. This framework balances central funding with local governance, allowing States to adapt delivery mechanisms while maintaining accountability and uniform policy objectives across the country.
Pension Schemes for Elderly, Widows, and Persons with Disabilities
NSAP comprises three major pension schemes addressing age, gender, and disability-based vulnerabilities. Under the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS), elderly citizens aged 60–79 years receive Rs.200 per month, while those aged 80 and above receive Rs.500 per month as central assistance.
The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) provides Rs.300 per month to widows aged 40–79 years and Rs.500 per month to those aged 80 and above. Similarly, the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) supports individuals aged 18–79 years with severe or multiple disabilities. States and UTs are encouraged to add top-up amounts, significantly increasing the effective pension received by beneficiaries and improving income adequacy.
Family Support and Food Security Components
Beyond pensions, NSAP includes two critical support mechanisms addressing sudden economic distress and food insecurity. The National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) provides a one-time assistance of Rs.20,000 to BPL families in the event of the death of the primary breadwinner aged between 18 and 59 years. This immediate financial support helps families cope with funeral expenses and short-term income loss.
Complementing this, the Annapurna Scheme ensures food security by providing 10 kilograms of food grains per month free of cost to senior citizens who are eligible for old age pensions but are not receiving them. Together, these components strengthen household resilience by addressing both income shocks and nutritional needs among the most vulnerable sections.
Budgetary Allocation and Financial Commitment (2025–26)
For the financial year 2025–26, the Government of India has allocated Rs.9,652 crore to NSAP, underlining its sustained commitment to social security. The majority of funds are directed towards old age and widow pensions, reflecting demographic realities and priority needs. The table below presents the component-wise budget allocation under NSAP.
Table 2: Budget Allocation under NSAP (2025–26)
| Component | Allocation (Rs. crore) |
|---|---|
| IGNOAPS | 6,645.90 |
| IGNWPS | 2,026.99 |
| NFBS | 659.00 |
| IGNDPS | 290.00 |
| Annapurna Scheme | 10.00 |
| Management Cell | 20.11 |
| Total | 9,652.00 |
Digitisation, Transparency, and Conclusion
NSAP has undergone significant digitisation, with beneficiary details such as Aadhaar numbers, bank accounts, and mobile numbers fully integrated into digital systems. Over 2.5 crore beneficiaries have Aadhaar-linked accounts, enabling Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) through the Public Financial Management System (PFMS) and reducing leakages. The launch of the Aadhaar-based Digital Life Certification (DLC) mobile application in July 2025 has further simplified annual verification processes.
Collectively, these reforms have enhanced transparency, efficiency, and trust in welfare delivery. In conclusion, NSAP stands as a cornerstone of India’s social safety net, combining financial assistance, food security, and digital governance to protect vulnerable citizens and promote inclusive development.
