Bihar on Friday became the first Indian state to launch a universal old age pension scheme , one that will put Rs. 400/= per month in the bank accounts of persons aged 60 years and above , irrespective of financial or caste status , provided they do not already receive state or central government pension.
Each male and female aged 80 years and above will get a pension of Rs.500= per month directly in his or her bank account under the scheme.
In other states, old age pensions are provided to members of BPL families , SCs/STs widows and the disabled only.
Source: The Times of India, New Delhi, Saturday, June 15, 2019, page 17
