Himachal Expands Social Security Net, Nearly One Lakh New Pensioners Added in Three Years

The Himachal Pradesh government has significantly strengthened its social security system over the past three years by approving 99,799 new pension cases, bringing the total number of beneficiaries in the state to 8,41,917. These beneficiaries include senior citizens, widows, single women, persons with disabilities (Divyaangjans), and other vulnerable sections of society.

According to official figures, a large number of elderly citizens are receiving support through old-age pension schemes. Around 1,04,740 people are covered under the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension, while 5,04,253 beneficiaries receive assistance under the State Old Age Pension scheme. Support for women is also substantial, with 25,414 widows receiving pensions through the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension, and 1,26,808 women benefiting under schemes meant for widows, destitute, and single women.

The state continues to extend help to persons with disabilities as well, with 1,340 beneficiaries receiving the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension and 78,291 people supported through the Disability Relief Allowance.

Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu highlighted that the approvals have been consistent over the years, with 41,799 new cases cleared in 2023–24, 41,012 in 2024–25, and 16,988 in 2025–26. He said the government has amended social security pension rules to ensure that benefits reach eligible beneficiaries without unnecessary delays.

The Chief Minister also pointed out that 2,67,040 women up to the age of 69 years are currently receiving a monthly pension of Rs. 1,500 under a dedicated scheme. At present, Himachal Pradesh has 5,04,253 old-age pensioners, 1,26,808 widows, destitute and single women beneficiaries, 78,291 persons receiving disability allowance, 1,021 beneficiaries under the leprosy rehabilitation allowance, and 50 transgender pensioners.

In a major relief for persons with severe disabilities, the state government has decided to increase the monthly pension for those with 100 percent disability from Rs. 1,700 to Rs. 3,000, a move expected to benefit around 7,000 individuals.

The Chief Minister further said that removing the income ceiling and the requirement of Gram Sabha approval for widowed, deserted, and single women, as well as for persons with 40 to 69 percent disability, has made the pension process smoother. These reforms have helped reduce delays and made it easier for eligible citizens to access much-needed financial support, reinforcing the government’s commitment to social welfare.