Keonjhar: Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi on Wednesday launched the enhanced social security pension scheme and distributed the allowances to elderly and disabled persons.
The Chief Minister launched the scheme as per the promise by the BJP in its election manifesto. He distributed the hiked allowances to beneficiaries at a function held at DD College Ground in Keonjhar.
As per the initiative, people aged 80 years and above and those with disability level of 80% or more are set to benefit from this scheme, receiving a monthly pension of Rs 3,500. The earlier pension amount under the scheme was Rs 1,200 per month. The scheme seeks to improve the welfare of the most vulnerable citizens.
Highlighting the significance of the initiative, the Chief Minister the hiked pension is a step towards ensuring dignity and financial security for our elderly and disabled population.
“We have launched the scheme in Keonjhar today and it will soon be introduced in every district,” Majhi said.
Noting that the previous government only provided Rs 1200, he said the amount has now been increased it to Rs 3500 as promised. This will benefit around 4 lakh people across the state.
Odisha government’s latest move highlights its commitment to uplift marginalised communities, ensuring equitable support for those in need. The focus remains on enabling a better quality of life for all sections of the society, particularly those who require additional assistance due to age or disability.’
It may be noted that the state government announced a substantial increase in pension for freedom fighters, marking an acknowledgement of their pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence. The state government has effectively doubled the support for those who faced imprisonment during India’s struggle for independence.
Freedom fighters who were imprisoned during the independence movement will now receive Rs 20,000 monthly, double the previous amount of Rs 10,000. Those who actively participated but were not imprisoned will have their pensions increased from Rs 9,000 to Rs 15,000.
