There is good news for senior citizens in Meerut and across Uttar Pradesh who are applying for pension benefits.
The government has now allowed several alternative documents for age verification, reducing dependence on Aadhaar cards.
This change is expected to make the pension application process easier, especially for elderly people who face difficulties due to Aadhaar-related issues.
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Aadhaar Will No Longer Be the Only Age Proof
According to District Social Welfare Officer Sunil Kumar Singh, new guidelines from the Government of India state that Aadhaar will no longer be treated as the primary proof of age for pension applications.
As a result, senior citizens applying for pension benefits can now submit other valid documents to verify their age and complete the application process.
The move is expected to benefit thousands of elderly people who may not have updated Aadhaar records or face challenges in using the document for verification purposes.
Which Documents Can Be Used Instead?
Urban pension applicants can now submit a self-declaration along with any one of the following documents:
Voter ID Card
Driving License
Passport
PAN Card
High School Certificate
For senior citizens living in rural areas, the government has provided additional flexibility.
If an applicant is illiterate and does not possess educational documents, a copy of the family register can also be used as proof.
Other documents such as voter ID cards, passports, and driving licenses will also be accepted.
Who Can Get the Pension Benefit?
The pension scheme is available to eligible senior citizens who meet the income criteria set by the government.
For residents of urban areas, the annual family income should not exceed ₹56,460.
For residents of rural areas, the annual income limit has been fixed at ₹46,080.
Senior citizens who meet these conditions and have not yet started receiving pension benefits can apply through the concerned government offices.
Where to Submit the Application?
Eligible elderly citizens can submit their applications along with the required documents at their nearest Block Office.
Those who need additional guidance or want to know more about the application process can contact the District Social Welfare Department for assistance.
The new rules are expected to make pension benefits more accessible and help more senior citizens receive financial support without facing documentation hurdles.