Old Age Samman Scheme Empowers The Elderly In Haryana

Old Age Samman Allowance Scheme is the scheme introduced by the Haryana Government in order to help senior citizens who are deprived of enough funds. It was first introduced in 1966 as the Old Age Pension Scheme and was later renamed in 1991 as it was better suited for the scope of dignity and independence for the elderly. It mainly caters to economically weaker sections, such as agricultural labourers, small farmers, rural artisans, etc.

The pension amount has been raised with the passing years to overcome inflation and the growing demand of people. From a very small amount of Rs 15 in 1966, the pension allowance has reached an amount of Rs 3,000 per month as of January 1, 2024. This rise means the constant flow of funds for Haryana's aged so that they can fulfill all their needs properly.

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Eligibility criteria

To qualify for the Old Age Samman Scheme, the following conditions must be met:

• Age: 60 years or above.

• Domicile: Must be a permanent resident of Haryana and must produce domicile proof.

• Annual Income: The annual income from all sources along with the spouse should not exceed Rs 3,00,000.

Exclusions

It excludes persons who already receive pensions from the government, local authorities, or organisations whose funds are administered by the government. This also excludes provident fund income, annuities, and other similar sources of income.

Beneficiary Data and Budget

Till date, the scheme caters to more than 17.85 lakh beneficiaries. In 2023-24, it has a sanctioned amount of Rs 5,538 crores. From its inception, the number of beneficiaries has increased year by year along with step-increments in the amount of allowance so that this particular program would be able to provide for the maximum number of elderly people.

Application Process

Any citizen, meeting the eligibility criteria, can apply to the Old Age Samman Allowance Scheme through the following procedure-

Step 1: Logging on to the SARAL Portal (https://saralharyana.gov.in). If not registered yet, then register through an authentic email and mobile number

Step 2: Log in to the SARAL Portal and proceed under the "Apply for Services" menu

Step 3: Search for "Old Age Samman Allowance," and click "Apply"

Step 4: Enter your CIDR, fill in the form, and submit

Step 5: Review your application details and confirm. Save or print the acknowledgement with your SARAL ID for tracking

Step 6: Download your application file from the portal using your SARAL ID

This scheme offers support to the elderly of Haryana by providing them with a pension, under which they can live a more secure and independent lifestyle. The government aims to bring more eligible citizens under its benefit by making it easier to apply and enhancing the pension amount.