NSAP Old Age Pension (IGNOAPS): Eligibility, Amount, and How to Apply

The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) is a Central Government pension scheme under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) that provides monthly financial assistance to elderly persons belonging to Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. It is one of India's largest social security programmes for senior citizens.

What is IGNOAPS?

IGNOAPS was launched in 1995 as part of the National Social Assistance Programme by the Ministry of Rural Development. The scheme provides a monthly pension to BPL citizens aged 60 years and above. The Central Government contributes a fixed amount, and most state governments add their own contribution to increase the total pension amount.

Who is Eligible?

To receive pension under IGNOAPS, you must meet the following criteria:

• Age: 60 years or above
• BPL status: The applicant must belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) household as per the BPL list identified by the state government
• Indian citizen: Must be a citizen of India
• Resident: Must be a resident of the state/UT where applying

Pension Amount

Note: Most states add their own contribution. For example, some states provide a total of ₹1,000-₹2,500 per month including the state share. Check with your state government for the total amount.

Documents Required

• Aadhaar card (mandatory for DBT)
• Age proof — birth certificate, school certificate, voter ID, or Aadhaar
• BPL card or BPL list inclusion proof
• Bank account passbook (Aadhaar-linked)
• Ration card
• Passport-size photographs (2)
• Address proof — voter ID, utility bill, or Aadhaar
• Income certificate (if required by state)

Step-by-Step Application Process

Online Application

1. Visit NSAP portal — Go to nsap.nic.in
2. Check your state portal — Many states have their own pension portals (e.g., SSPY for UP, SSPMIS for Bihar). Check if your state accepts online applications
3. Register — Create an account or apply through the state pension portal
4. Fill application form — Enter personal details, age, BPL status, bank account details
5. Upload documents — Upload scanned copies of Aadhaar, age proof, BPL card, bank passbook, and photograph
6. Submit — Review and submit the application
7. Track status — Use the application number to track status on the portal

Offline Application

1. Obtain the form — Get the NSAP/IGNOAPS application form from the Gram Panchayat office (rural) or Municipal office (urban)
2. Fill the form — Complete all fields with accurate details
3. Attach documents — Attach self-attested copies of all required documents
4. Submit — Submit the form at the Gram Panchayat (rural) or ULB/Municipal office (urban)
5. Verification — The Block Development Officer (BDO) or designated officer will verify your application
6. Approval — After verification, the application is forwarded to the district/state level for approval
7. Pension credited — Once approved, pension is credited directly to your bank account via DBT

Processing Time

• Verification: 30-60 days after submission
• Approval and first payment: 2-3 months from submission (varies by state)
• Payment frequency: Monthly or quarterly (varies by state)

Important Tips

1. Ensure BPL listing — Check if your name appears in the BPL list maintained by the state government. Without BPL status, you cannot apply under IGNOAPS
2. Link Aadhaar to bank — Your Aadhaar card must be linked to your bank account for receiving pension via Direct Benefit Transfer
3. Check state top-up — Many states provide additional pension above the Central share. Check your state's pension amount
4. Also check state pension — States like UP, Bihar, Rajasthan have their own old age pension schemes with higher amounts. You can check UP Vridha Pension for UP-specific details
5. Annual verification — Some states require annual life verification (Jeevan Pramaan). Complete this on time to avoid pension stoppage

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1. What is the pension amount under IGNOAPS?

The Central Government provides ₹300/month for persons aged 60-79 years and ₹500/month for those aged 80 and above. States add their own contribution, so the total amount varies.

Q2. Can I get both IGNOAPS and state old age pension?

IGNOAPS is often implemented through the state pension system. The state contribution is added to the Central share. You typically receive one combined pension, not two separate payments.

Q3. How do I check if I am in the BPL list?

Check with your Gram Panchayat or Block Development Officer. You can also check on the SECC (Socio-Economic Caste Census) data portal or state-specific portals.

Q4. Is the pension taxable?

No, pension received under IGNOAPS is not taxable as it is a social welfare benefit.

Q5. What if my application is rejected?

If rejected, you can appeal to the higher authority (District Social Welfare Officer or District Magistrate). Common reasons for rejection include not being in the BPL list or incomplete documents.

Q6. Can I apply if I already receive EPF/EPS pension?

IGNOAPS is meant for BPL persons who do not have adequate financial support. If you receive a substantial pension from EPF/EPS, you may not be eligible. Check with your state authority.

Q7. How is pension paid?

Pension is paid directly to the beneficiary's bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). Aadhaar-linked bank account is mandatory.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only and is not affiliated with the Government of India. For official information, visit nsap.nic.in.