IGNOAPS Sikkim: Old Age Pension for BPL Elderly

Overview

The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) in Sikkim is part of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) run by the central government and implemented at the state level. It provides a monthly pension to elderly individuals living below the poverty line, helping them meet basic daily needs without depending entirely on family support.

Objective

The scheme is aimed at providing financial security to the poorest senior citizens. It recognizes that elderly people from BPL households often have no source of income and need direct financial support to live with dignity.

Benefits

• Monthly pension of Rs 200 for beneficiaries aged 60 to 79 years (central contribution)
• Monthly pension of Rs 500 for beneficiaries aged 80 years and above
• Additional top-up from the Sikkim state government over and above the central amount
• Funds transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account through DBT
• No middlemen involved in payment disbursal

Eligibility

• Must be a resident of Sikkim
• Age 60 years or above
• Must belong to a household listed on the Below Poverty Line (BPL) list
• Should not be receiving pension from any other government scheme
• Must have an active bank or post office account for DBT

Exclusions

• Individuals above 60 years who are not on the BPL list are not eligible
• Those already receiving old age pension under another central or state scheme are excluded
• Government pensioners or those with regular income sources are not covered

Application Process

1. Obtain the application form from the District Social Welfare Office or the local gram panchayat
2. Fill in the form with personal details, age proof, and BPL status information
3. Submit the form along with supporting documents to the concerned authority
4. The application is verified by the local administration
5. Approved beneficiaries are enrolled and pension is disbursed through DBT

Documents Required

• Age proof (birth certificate, Aadhaar, voter ID)
• BPL card or proof of inclusion in BPL list
• Aadhaar card
• Bank or post office account passbook
• Passport-size photograph
• Proof of residence in Sikkim