The Divyangjan Pension Scheme has undergone a major change, widening eligibility to people with benchmark disabilities of 40% or more, including children from birth.
The Union Cabinet approved the changes on October 14, 2026, as part of the continuation of the National Social Assistance Programme for five years, from 2026–27 to 2030–31.
The decision reduces the disability threshold from 80% to 40% and removes the minimum age requirement.
It is expected to bring many more people with disabilities into the central assistance programme, particularly children and individuals whose disability falls between 40% and 79%.
Who Is Eligible for the Divyangjan Pension Scheme?
Under the revised central scheme, people with a certified benchmark disability of at least 40% may qualify from birth, subject to the scheme’s other eligibility conditions.
Previously, eligibility under the central disability pension scheme generally required a person to be at least 18 years old and have a disability level of 80% or more.
The revised criteria align the scheme with the benchmark disability definition under the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016.
A valid disability certificate from the authorised certifying authority remains important for establishing eligibility.
The central scheme also retains the requirement that beneficiaries belong to households below the poverty line.
Meeting the disability threshold alone does not automatically guarantee pension approval; applicants must satisfy the other applicable conditions as well.
How Much Pension Will Eligible Beneficiaries Receive?
Under the revised central assistance rates, beneficiaries aged from birth to 79 years will receive ₹375 per month, while those aged 80 years and above will receive ₹625 per month.
These are the central government’s assistance amounts under the scheme.
States and Union Territories may provide additional financial support on top of the central contribution.
Therefore, the total monthly pension received by an eligible person can differ depending on the state and the applicable state-level scheme.
The revised central assistance rates should not be confused with the full amount offered under a separate state disability pension programme.
Applicants should confirm the amount applicable to their location with the relevant welfare department.
What Changes for Children With Disabilities?
Removing the minimum age requirement is a significant change for children with disabilities.
Previously, children below 18 were excluded from the central disability pension on the basis of age, even when they had substantial support and care needs.
Under the revised framework, eligible children can be considered from birth, provided they meet the disability certification and other scheme requirements.
This could help qualifying families manage some of the costs associated with care and everyday needs.
The government has said that the number of beneficiaries under the disability pension component is expected to increase from around 8.33 lakh to 27.48 lakh.
The broader social assistance programme is expected to cover approximately 3.20 crore beneficiaries across all states and Union Territories.
 When Will the New Pension Rules Be Implemented?
The Union Cabinet has approved the policy changes, but the detailed implementation guidelines are still to follow.
The government has stated that the revised guidelines covering eligibility, beneficiary numbers and assistance rates will be issued and implemented within three months.
Applicants should therefore check for the official notification before assuming that new applications are already being accepted under the revised criteria.
The relevant state welfare department will provide information on the application process and documents required.
How to Apply for Disability Pension in Uttar Pradesh
Residents of Uttar Pradesh can check the state’s integrated social pension portal and contact the district Divyangjan Sashaktikaran Department for guidance.
The existing state disability pension programme has its own application process and eligibility requirements, which applicants should distinguish from the revised central scheme.
Applicants should keep their disability certificate, identity and residence documents, bank account details and income-related documents ready.
They should confirm the latest checklist with the department before submitting an application.
In Banda district, families can also contact the district disability welfare office for information about registration and the implementation schedule.
As the revised central guidelines are expected within three months, applicants should follow official updates to learn when the new eligibility rules become operational.
