How to Apply for Disability Pension for Differently-Abled Persons in India (2025 Guide)

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Introduction

Disability pensions are an important form of financial assistance for differently-abled persons in India. They provide a fixed monthly income that helps with day-to-day expenses, medical costs, and basic needs, offering stability and dignity to those who may not be able to work full time.

In India, disability pensions are provided through a mix of central government schemes and state-specific programs. The central scheme, Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS), sets a base level of support, while each state has its own rules, additional benefits, and pension amounts.

Because eligibility conditions, pension amounts, and application procedures differ from state to state, it is important to understand the general requirements as well as the specific rules in your region. This guide covers both the national framework and state-level details, along with the step-by-step process to apply online or offline.

Documents Required

Applicants must keep the following documents ready before applying for disability pension:

Disability certificate issued by a government hospital or authorized medical board.
Aadhaar card.
Proof of residence such as ration card, voter ID, or domicile certificate.
Age proof (birth certificate, school certificate, or Aadhaar).
Income certificate from Tehsildar/SDM or other competent authority.
Bank account details including passbook copy (for Direct Benefit Transfer – DBT).
Passport-size photographs.

In some states, additional documents such as a caste certificate, mobile number, or self-declaration affidavit may also be required.

Central Government Scheme: Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS)

The Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS) is the primary central government initiative to support differently-abled persons. It operates under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) and provides a minimum pension amount to eligible beneficiaries.

Key Features of IGNDPS

Eligibility:
Applicant must belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) household.
Age between 18 and 79 years.
Disability level must be 80% or more, certified by a government medical authority.
Pension Amount:
Central contribution is ₹300 per month.
Many states add additional top-ups, bringing the total benefit to anywhere between ₹500 and ₹1500 per month, depending on the state.
Payment Method:
Pension is disbursed directly into the beneficiary’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
Objective:
To provide a basic level of financial security to severely disabled individuals who are unable to sustain themselves financially.

Although IGNDPS provides only a small base pension, most states have their own disability pension schemes which increase the total benefit amount.

State-Level Disability Pension Schemes

In addition to the central IGNDPS scheme, every state runs its own disability pension program. The pension amount, eligibility, and application process differ by state. Below are some of the most popular state-level schemes:

Delhi: Viklang Pension Yojana

Monthly pension: ₹2500.
Eligibility: Resident of Delhi, 40% or more disability, family income less than ₹1 lakh per year.
Apply online via the [Delhi Government Pension Portal].

Uttar Pradesh: Divyang Pension Yojana

Monthly pension: ₹1000.
Eligibility: Resident of Uttar Pradesh, minimum 40% disability, annual family income less than ₹46,080 (rural) or ₹56,460 (urban).
Apply on the [UP Pension Portal].

Karnataka: State Disability Pension Scheme

Monthly pension: ₹1000–₹1500 depending on disability level.
Eligibility: 40% or more disability, income ceiling set by state.
Apply via the [Seva Sindhu Portal].

Tamil Nadu: Differently Abled Pension

Monthly pension: ₹1000.
Eligibility: Resident of Tamil Nadu, certified disability of 40% or more.
Apply on the [Tamil Nadu Social Welfare Portal].

Kerala: Aswasakiranam Scheme

Monthly pension: ₹1300.
Eligibility: Differently-abled persons and their caregivers.
Apply via the [Kerala Social Security Mission Portal].

State-Level Disability Pension Schemes

Delhi: Viklang Pension Yojana

Monthly pension: ₹2500.
Eligibility: Resident of Delhi, 40% or more disability, family income less than ₹1 lakh per year.
Apply online via the [Delhi Government Pension Portal].

Uttar Pradesh: Divyang Pension Yojana

Monthly pension: ₹1000.
Eligibility: Resident of Uttar Pradesh, minimum 40% disability, annual family income less than ₹46,080 (rural) or ₹56,460 (urban).
Apply on the [UP Pension Portal].

Karnataka: State Disability Pension Scheme

Monthly pension: ₹1000–₹1500 depending on disability level.
Eligibility: 40% or more disability, income ceiling set by state.
Apply via the [Seva Sindhu Portal].

Tamil Nadu: Differently Abled Pension

Monthly pension: ₹1000.
Eligibility: Resident of Tamil Nadu, certified disability of 40% or more.
Apply on the [Tamil Nadu Social Welfare Portal].

Kerala: Aswasakiranam Scheme

Monthly pension: ₹1300.
Eligibility: Differently-abled persons and their caregivers.
Apply via the [Kerala Social Security Mission Portal].

Maharashtra: Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Anudan Yojana

Monthly pension: ₹600–₹900.
Eligibility: Residents with severe disability or no means of livelihood.
Apply through the [Maharashtra Social Justice Portal].

Note: Pension amounts and eligibility rules are updated frequently by state governments. Always verify the latest details on the official state portals.

Application Process

The process to apply for disability pension can be done either online through state government portals or offline at designated offices. Below are the step-by-step methods:

Online Application Process

Visit the official state government pension or social welfare portal.
Register using Aadhaar number and mobile number.
Fill in the disability pension application form carefully.
Upload scanned copies of all required documents.
Submit the application and note down the application/reference number.
Use the reference number or Aadhaar number to track application status online.

Offline Application Process

Collect the disability pension application form from the District Social Welfare Office, Block Office, or Municipal Office.
Fill the form and attach all supporting documents.
Submit the completed application to the concerned office.
The authorities will verify the documents and disability certificate.
Once approved, the pension amount will be directly credited into the applicant’s bank account through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Both methods involve verification by government officials before the pension is sanctioned. The online method is faster in most states, but offline applications are still accepted widely, especially in rural areas.

How to Track Application Status

Once the disability pension application has been submitted, applicants can check the status through different methods depending on their state.

Online Status Check

Visit the official pension or social welfare portal of your state.
Look for the “Application Status” or “Track Status” option.
Enter the application ID, Aadhaar number, or mobile number.
The system will display whether the application is pending, approved, or rejected.

Through Common Service Centres (CSC)

Applicants in rural or semi-urban areas can visit the nearest CSC centre.
Provide Aadhaar or application ID to the operator.
The operator can access the state portal and inform the applicant of the status.

Helpline Numbers

Most states have dedicated pension scheme helpline numbers.
Applicants can call the number, provide basic details, and obtain status updates.

Tip: Keep a copy of your application reference number safe, as it will be needed for tracking and future correspondence.

Pension Amount and Disbursement

The pension amount under disability schemes varies depending on whether it is provided by the central government, the state government, or both combined.

Central Contribution (IGNDPS)

Under the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS), the central government provides ₹300 per month.
This amount is transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account.

State Contributions

States add their own share to the central amount, which increases the total monthly pension.
The combined amount ranges between ₹500 to ₹2500 per month, depending on the state.
Examples:
Delhi: ₹2500 per month.
Uttar Pradesh: ₹1000 per month.
Kerala: ₹1300 per month.
Maharashtra: ₹600–₹900 per month.

Payment Method

All payments are made through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the applicant’s registered bank account.
Frequency of payments may be monthly or quarterly, depending on the state’s policy.

Additional Benefits

Some states also offer extra allowances such as medical assistance, festival bonuses, or caregiver support allowances.

Common Issues and Solutions

While applying for disability pension, applicants may face certain challenges. Below are the most common issues along with practical solutions:

Delay in Approval

Reason: Pending verification or incomplete documentation.
Solution: Ensure all mandatory documents are uploaded or attached correctly. Follow up with the local social welfare office if delays exceed 2–3 months.

Rejection Due to Errors

Reason: Mismatch in Aadhaar, bank details, or incorrect entries in the application form.
Solution: Cross-check all details before submission. If rejected, correct the errors and r

Helplines and Useful Links

Applicants can use the following official resources to apply for disability pensions, check status, or raise complaints:

Central Resources

[NSAP Portal] – National Social Assistance Programme official site.
[Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment] – Provides scheme details and updates.

State Portals

[Delhi Pension Portal] – Apply for Viklang Pension Yojana in Delhi.
[UP Pension Portal] – Divyang Pension Yojana application and status.
[Karnataka Seva Sindhu Portal] – Disability pension applications in Karnataka.
[Tamil Nadu Social Welfare Portal] – Apply for Differently Abled Pension in Tamil Nadu.
[Kerala Social Security Mission Portal] – Aswasakiranam Scheme applications.
[Maharashtra Social Justice Portal] – Sanjay Gandhi Niradhar Anudan Yojana details.

Helplines

National Social Assistance Helpline: 1800-11-8111.
State-specific social welfare helplines (check official state portals).

Tip: Always apply through the official websites or local government offices to avoid fraud.

FAQs

Who is eligible for disability pension in India?

Any Indian citizen with a certified disability of 40% or more, who falls within the prescribed age and income limits set by the central or state government.

What is the minimum disability percentage required?

Most state schemes require at least 40% disability. The central IGNDPS scheme generally applies to those with 80% disability or more.

How much pension is given under these schemes?

The amount ranges from ₹300 to ₹2500 per month depending on the scheme and the state.

Can I apply for disability pension online?

Yes, almost every state has an online portal where applications can be submitted. Applicants in rural areas may also use Common Service Centres (CSCs).

Can a person receive both old-age pension and disability pension?

Generally, beneficiaries can only receive one type of social pension at a time. However, rules may differ slightly from state to state.

How long does it take for the pension to start?

After verification of documents, it usually takes 1–3 months for the pension to be sanctioned and credited to the applicant’s bank account.

Conclusion

Disability pensions play a vital role in supporting differently-abled persons in India. They provide financial stability, help cover medical and living expenses, and empower beneficiaries to live with dignity.

While the central government offers a basic pension through IGNDPS, most states have their own additional schemes with higher benefits. The application process has also become simpler with the availability of online portals and Common Service Centres (CSCs).

If you or someone you know is eligible, it is important to gather the required documents and apply as soon as possible. By taking advantage of these welfare schemes, differently-abled citizens can secure regular support and improve their quality of life.

Always use official state portals or local government offices for applications, and keep track of updates to ensure uninterrupted pension benefits.

Conclusion

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