Atal Pension Yojana Hits 9 Crore Subscribers: Here's All You Need To Know About the Rs 5,000 Pension Scheme

As of April 21, 2026, the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) has recorded 9 crore new subscribers, the government has said. In FY 2025-26, APY subscribers increased by over 1.35 crore, the highest in the scheme's history since it was launched in May 2015.

APY is regulated by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) and is a voluntary and contributory pension scheme. It is primarily targeted at individuals in the unorganised sector.

How APY Works

APY provides a fixed monthly pension to subscribers after they reach 60. The pension amount ranges from Rs 1,000 to Rs 5,000, based on the contribution made and the age at which the subscriber joins.

The scheme includes three defined benefits. Subscribers receive a guaranteed monthly pension after turning 60. In the event of the subscriber’s death, the same pension amount is paid to the spouse. After the death of both the subscriber and the spouse, the accumulated corpus is returned to the nominee.

Benefits of the Scheme

There are different pension slabs available for the subscribers, depending on their contribution level. Contributions are made through an auto-debit facility linked to a bank account.

The scheme also provides for continuation of pension payments to the spouse and return of the corpus to the nominee.

Calculation of Pension

The amount of the pension is based on the contribution, the age of entry and duration of contributions. Those who join at a younger age can contribute less over a longer time, whereas those who join later will have to contribute more over a shorter period to enjoy a desirable corpus.

The pension is also linked to annuity rates applicable at the time of exit.

Eligibility and Age Limit

APY is available to Indian citizens aged between 18 and 40 years. Individuals who are or have been income taxpayers are not eligible to join the scheme.

Subscribers are required to have a savings bank account for contribution payments.

Charges and Contribution Structure

The scheme involves nominal charges. The account opening fee is Rs 15, and the annual maintenance charge is Rs 15. There are no transaction charges.