April 11, Jaipur: The Rajasthan government is reviewing a proposal that could potentially lead to the discontinuation of pensions for lakhs of current recipients. The Department of Social Justice and Empowerment has sent a proposal to the Chief Minister’s Office (CMO), recommending the cancellation of pensions for beneficiaries whose electricity bills indicate income levels above the eligibility threshold.Electricity Bills May Decide Pension Eligibility
According to the proposal, any pension recipient who pays ₹48,000 or more annually in electricity bills may no longer qualify for pension benefits. The proposal also considers a lower threshold of ₹24,000 for further review. The logic behind this move is based on a recent government survey, which revealed that many current beneficiaries have annual incomes exceeding the eligibility limit.
Over 91 Lakh Currently Availing Benefits
Currently, 91.85 lakh individuals in Rajasthan receive monthly pensions under various social welfare schemes, including:
- Mukhyamantri Vridhjan Samman Pension Yojana (for the elderly)
- Mukhyamantri Ekal Nari Samman Pension Yojana (for single women)
- Mukhyamantri Vishisht Yogyajan Samman Pension Yojana (for differently-abled individuals)
The monthly pension, which ranges from ₹1,150 to ₹1,500, is intended to provide financial support to the state’s most vulnerable populations.
No Final Decision Yet
Avinash Gehlot, Minister for the Department of Social Justice and Empowerment, emphasized that the pensions are meant for economically weaker sections. He clarified that while the department is evaluating the electricity bill-based income criteria, no final decision has been made.
“We are assessing beneficiaries whose electricity expenses are ₹24,000 or more per year. A proposal has been submitted to the Chief Minister’s Office, but the decision is still pending. Our goal is to ensure that the benefits reach the truly needy,” said Gehlot.
The proposal, if approved, may free up resources to bring more eligible beneficiaries under the pension schemes while phasing out those whose financial condition has improved.
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