Over 7 lakh applicants awaiting approval for allowances in Odisha: Minister

More than seven lakh beneficiaries are currently awaiting approval for allowances in Odisha, informed Minister for Social Security and Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities - Nityananda Gond in the State Assembly on Friday.

Under the Madhu Babu Pension Yojna alone, as many as 7,11,123 applications are pending, while 17,606 applications are awaiting approval under the National Social Assistance Scheme.

At present, 56,18,000 beneficiaries are receiving allowances under various welfare schemes. This information was provided by the Minister in a written reply in the Assembly. 

Also Read: Odisha cabinet approves hike in monthly pension

Earlier in January this year, Odisha government had hiked the pension allowance under the social security scheme.

As per the new decision, the pension allowance was hiked for persons who are 80 years and above and also persons with 80 per cent disability. As per the guidelines, the pension for the above-mentioned categories was hiked to Rs 3,500 per month. The earlier pension amount under the scheme was Rs 1,200 monthly.

Earlier, Odisha government had announced a substantial increase in pension for freedom fighters, marking an acknowledgement of their pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence.