Bihar Pension 2026 - How to Apply, Eligibility, and Pension Amount

Understanding the Bihar Pension Scheme

The Bihar pension scheme is a social welfare scheme introduced by the Department of Social Welfare to help the economically disadvantaged groups. It is widely spread, with more than 1.12 crore individuals benefiting under the pension scheme. Its primary objective is to reduce financial hardship by providing consistent and reliable assistance to senior citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities.

The financial aid is transferred directly into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries using a transparent digital process. This digital approach improves efficiency, minimises delays, reduces corruption, and ensures that pensions are distributed in a fair and transparent manner.

Major Pension Schemes in Bihar

The Bihar pension scheme includes several important welfare programmes that provide financial support to different sections of society. The implementation of these schemes is done in a transparent system in order to provide timely and direct benefits under the following three categories:

Widow Pension

1. Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension

   According to the Indira Gandhi Widow Pension Scheme (Central Government), widows aged 40 to 59 years in households below the poverty line as per the Government of India criteria are eligible to central assistance. The scheme offers financial assistance to help widows meet their daily living expenses.

2. Laxmi Bai Social Security Pension

   As the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) only covers widows aged 40-59, some State Governments have launched state widow pension schemes. The Lakshmi Bai Pension Yojana in Bihar covers all widows above 18 years of age whose annual family income is below ₹60,000.

Old Pension

1. Indira Gandhi Old Age Pension

   In the case of the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme, the scheme covers individuals of 60 years or older who are eligible as per the rules defined by the government. It offers simple financial aid to assist the elderly in taking care of their daily survival needs.

2. Mukhyamantri Vridhjan Pension Yojna

   The Mukhyamantri Vridhjan Pension Yojna is a state-run old age pension scheme in Bihar, according to which eligible beneficiaries are entitled to a monthly pension of ₹1,100. The legal age of registration is 60 years. Possession of an EPIC card and an Aadhaar card is mandatory. Aadhaar consent and bank account details with consent for Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) are also required.

Disability Pension

1. Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension

   The Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme was introduced in Bihar during 2009-10 as a part of the National Social Assistance Programme and is implemented using funds received from the Government of India. Applicants who are already receiving a state social security pension are not eligible under this scheme. Under this scheme, beneficiaries receive a central pension, which is supplemented by the state to reach up to ₹1,100 per month.

2. Bihar State Disability Pension

   The Bihar State Disability Pension Scheme was initiated by the state government to cover beneficiaries who are not covered under the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS). Persons with 40% or above disability, and as per prescribed rules, are eligible under this scheme.

Eligibility Requirements

Although some schemes have special requirements, the common eligibility requirements generally include:

• Permanent Residency: The applicant should be a permanent resident of Bihar, with valid residence proof.
• Economic Status: Their annual family income should generally not exceed ₹60,000, as per state guidelines.
• Age Requirement: The senior citizens should be 60 years and above.
• Disability Certification: Disability certificate is required for people with disabilities.
• Marital Status Proof: Widows have to provide marital status documents.
• No Other Pension Benefits: Beneficiaries do not receive any other government pension.

How to Apply for the Bihar Pension Scheme?

The process is accessible to the residents of both urban and rural areas, as the applicants may apply online or offline.

1. Online Application Process

   The applicants can use the following steps to apply to the Bihar pension scheme using the official portal:

   • Access the Official Portal: Log in to the official site of the Bihar pension.
   • Choose the Relevant Scheme: Select the pension scheme that is relevant to your eligibility.
   • Enter Aadhaar and Personal Details: Provide your Aadhaar number and basic personal information.
   • Provide Address, Income, and Bank Information: Enter your residential, financial, and bank account numbers.
   • Upload Required Documents: You are required to submit scanned copies of all the required documents.
   • Submit the Application: Check the application and submit it for verification.

2. Offline Application Process

   Individuals not used to digital platforms may submit an application in offline centres using the following steps:

   • Visit the Nearest Service Centre: Visit the nearest social welfare office or block office, or RTPS counter.
   • Collect the Application Form: Ask the concerned official to provide the pension application form.
   • Fill in Required Details: Add personal, address, and bank details with help where necessary.
   • Submit Supporting Documents: Present copies of the required documents to verify.
   • Get Assistance from Officials: The officials will help in uploading documents and finalising the process.
   • Receive Acknowledgement Slip: Get the receipt or reference number to make future tracking.

3. Documents Required

   Applicants must submit valid documents to complete registration. These generally include:

   • Aadhaar card
   • Residence certificate
   • Bank passbook
   • Income certificate
   • Age proof
   • Disability certificate (if applicable)
   • Death certificate of spouse (for widows)
   • Passport-size photographs

Key Takeaways

The Bihar pension schemes allow beneficiaries to monitor the status of their applications, payment history, and personal information, which enhances transparency and accountability. Applicants can contact local offices or go through grievance platforms in case they are experiencing any delays or errors. They ensure uniformity of payment and security through transparent digitalised systems and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).