The Telangana government launched the Aasara pension scheme to ensure financial security for senior citizens belonging to the economically weaker section of society in the state.

Launched on November 8, 2014, by then Telangana Chief Minister K. Chandrashekar Rao, the scheme aims to ensure a secured and dignified life for the older people of marginalised communities by providing them a monthly pension to meet their basic needs like food.

Pension Amount

The scheme provides a monthly pension of Rs. 1,000 to senior citizens and Rs 1,500 to those with physical disability. At the time of its launch, the pension amount was Rs 200 for general elderly people and those with disability received Rs 500 monthly.

Also Read: EPFO Form 19: When And How To Use It 

Beneficiary

The Aasara pension scheme is a financial assistance programme for senior citizens, widows, women, marginalised communities, physically challenged, and people with AIDS. Toddy tappers, people who harvest coconut for livelihood, weavers, beedi workers, etc., are also eligible for the scheme.

Government financial assistance schemes help reduce poverty either by direct payments or through employment opportunities or both. Welfare schemes play a crucial role in leading a normal life for old and infirm who cannot afford the bare minimum. Other welfare schemes active in the state include Atal Pension Yojana, Kalyan Laxmi Yojana, Kanti Velugu, and Mission Bhagiratha, which provides fresh drinking water for the poor in the state.

Also Read: How Do You Start Saving For Retirement Early And What Are The Benefits?

The Telangana government has spent a total of Rs 4,700 crore under the Aasara pension scheme for 37,65,304 people from the magrinalised communities in Telangana. According to the official data, the Aasara Pension has yielded better results than other welfare schemes, with a 478 per cent growth rate over other welfare schemes.