Patna: In a major social welfare initiative, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Tuesday transferred ₹1,263.95 crore directly into the bank accounts of over 1.13 crore beneficiaries under the Social Security Pension Scheme through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT). The announcement was made during an official program held at ‘Sankalp’, 1 Aney Marg, Patna.
Increased Pension Disbursed for Three Months
The transferred amount covers monthly pensions for June, July, and August 2025, now provided at the revised rate of ₹1,100 per month, up from the earlier ₹400. This hike, implemented in June 2025, is aimed at providing better financial support to the elderly, widows, and persons with disabilities.
Over 2.22 Lakh New Beneficiaries Added
According to Social Welfare Department Secretary Bandana Preyashi, the number of pension recipients has increased significantly. In the last three months alone, 2.22 lakh new beneficiaries have been added, including 1.23 lakh approvals in the past month. This expansion reflects the government’s focus on ensuring no eligible person is left out.
CM Reiterates Commitment to Social Justice
Speaking at the event, CM Nitish Kumar emphasized the government’s ongoing efforts to uplift the most vulnerable sections of society.
“We have increased the pension amount to ₹1,100 per month so that senior citizens, differently-abled individuals, and widows can live with dignity. Our goal is to ensure timely support and complete coverage,” said the Chief Minister.
He also instructed the department to ensure that pension payments reach beneficiaries by the 10th of every month and that no eligible citizen is excluded.
Scheme-Wise Disbursement Summary
The ₹1,263.95 crore was distributed across various central and state-level pension schemes as follows:
- Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension
→ ₹389.31 crore to 35,38,296 beneficiaries - Chief Minister’s Old Age Pension
→ ₹585.87 crore to 51,98,211 beneficiaries - Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension
→ ₹70.32 crore to 6,35,719 beneficiaries - Lakshmibai Social Security Pension (Widows)
→ ₹97.98 crore to 8,81,680 beneficiaries - Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension
→ ₹12.14 crore to 1,10,319 beneficiaries - Bihar Disability Pension Scheme
→ ₹108.33 crore to 9,78,483 beneficiaries
Short Film and Green Welcome
The program also included the screening of a short film on the Social Security Pension Scheme. To mark the occasion, Social Welfare Secretary Bandana Preyashi welcomed the Chief Minister with a green sapling, symbolizing sustainability and growth.
A Step Towards Inclusive Governance
This large-scale, tech-enabled disbursement showcases Bihar’s commitment to inclusive governance, social equity, and the timely delivery of welfare benefits. With the pension hike and continued expansion of coverage, the state aims to improve the quality of life for millions who rely on social security for their basic needs.
