The central government has announced a major relief for workers in the unorganized sector. On Wednesday, the Union Cabinet approved the continuation of the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) until the financial year 2030-31.
Along with this extension, government support for promoting, developing, and providing gap funding for the scheme has also been increased.
The government says this decision aims to strengthen income security in old age and promote financial inclusion, especially for workers without a regular income after retirement.
Ensuring Wider Reach and Long-Term Sustainability
A government statement said that funding will continue for awareness campaigns, capacity building,
and other activities to enroll more eligible people in the scheme. Gap funding will also be provided to maintain the scheme’s long-term sustainability.
The Atal Pension Yojana, launched on May 9, 2015, guarantees a fixed pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month after the age of 60.
The exact amount depends on the individual’s contribution and age at the time of joining the scheme.
According to government data, over 86.6 million people have joined the APY as of January 19, 2026. The government believes that continued policy
and financial support are crucial to maintain enrollment rates and spread accurate information across the country.
Extending the scheme until 2030-31 is expected to give long-term confidence to the public. This move aligns with the Developed India 2047 vision, which focuses on expanding social security and pension coverage for all citizens.
