There is good news for lakhs of pensioners in Bihar. Those who often face delays in receiving their monthly pension may soon get relief.
Bihar Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary has directed officials to ensure that pension payments under social security schemes are transferred to beneficiaries’ bank accounts by the 10th of every month.
He made it clear that delays in pension disbursement will not be tolerated and instructed officials to strictly follow the payment schedule.
Government Focuses on Timely Pension Payments
The announcement was made during a high-level review meeting of the Social Welfare Department held at Sankalp Auditorium in Patna.
During the meeting, Chief Minister Samrat Choudhary reviewed the performance of various welfare programs and emphasized that eligible beneficiaries should receive government assistance on time.
Officials were directed to improve monitoring systems and ensure that pension payments reach beneficiaries without unnecessary delays.
Review of Child Welfare and Nutrition Programs
Apart from pension schemes, the government also reviewed the functioning of the Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS), the Directorate of Social Security, and the Women and Child Development Corporation.
Special attention was given to issues related to child nutrition and physical development.
The Chief Minister said reducing stunting (low height for age) and wasting (low weight for age) among children remains a top priority for the state government.
He instructed officials to use technology for better monitoring of Anganwadi services and the distribution of nutritional supplements.
He also stressed the importance of regular attendance by Anganwadi workers and ensuring that all eligible children benefit from these services.
Parvarish Yojana and Other Welfare Schemes Under Review
The state government is also considering a review of financial assistance provided under various welfare schemes, including the Parvarish Yojana for children from economically weaker families.
The aim is to help more eligible beneficiaries access government support.
The Chief Minister also directed officials to speed up recruitment for vacant posts in the department and explore partnerships with private companies through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives to improve Anganwadi infrastructure and services.
Which Pension Schemes Are Available in Bihar?
Currently, six major pension schemes are being implemented in Bihar:
Mukhyamantri Vriddhjan Pension Yojana
Indira Gandhi Old Age Pension Scheme
Indira Gandhi Widow Pension Scheme
Lakshmibai Social Security Pension Scheme
Bihar Disability Pension Scheme
Indira Gandhi Disability Pension Scheme
These schemes provide monthly financial assistance to elderly citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities.
Notably, the pension amount under these schemes was increased to ₹1,100 per month last year.
What This Means for Beneficiaries
If the new instructions are implemented effectively, pensioners will no longer have to wait for long periods to receive their monthly payments.
Timely pension deposits can provide much-needed financial stability to elderly citizens, widows, and other vulnerable groups who depend on these benefits for their daily expenses.
