Over 8.33 lakh National Disability Pension Scheme beneficiaries in country, 20,000 from Telangana

The cap on the number of beneficiaries of the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) in Telangana stands at 20,578 and the total number of beneficiaries across the country is 8,33,571, according to a response of the Ministry of Rural Development supplied to Hyderabad parliamentarian Asaduddin Owaisi.

Mr. Owaisi, who is the All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen president, sought information on the number of persons with disabilities who are beneficiaries of the scheme, the eligibility criteria, and the reason why the scheme covers on those with 80%, or more, disability. He also sought to know the pension amount and whether there are any proposals to increase the Union Government’s share in contribution.

The Union Government stated that the scheme was introduced in 2009 as a part of the National Social Assistance Programme. Those from below poverty line households and having multiple or severe disabilities are eligible for disability assistance. However, it is the Union Territory and State government’s responsibility to identify most vulnerable persons for coverage.