In the twilight years of life, financial security becomes a pressing concern for many senior citizens. Recognizing this need, the Haryana government has implemented the Old Age Samman Allowance scheme, a beacon of hope for the elderly population in the state. This comprehensive program aims to provide a stable monthly income to seniors, ensuring they can live with dignity and independence.
What is the Old Age Samman Allowance?
The Old Age Samman Allowance is a social security scheme run by the Haryana government’s Department of Social Justice and Empowerment. It offers a monthly pension to senior citizens aged 60 and above who struggle to support themselves financially. The scheme, which began in 1964, has evolved over the years to better serve the needs of Haryana’s elderly population.
The Purpose Behind the Scheme
The main goals of the Old Age Samman Allowance are:
- To provide financial security to needy senior citizens
- To offer a safety net for those without other income sources
- To promote respect and care for the elderly in society
By addressing these objectives, the scheme aims to improve the quality of life for Haryana’s senior citizens and acknowledge their contributions to society.
Who Can Benefit from the Scheme?
To be eligible for the Old Age Samman Allowance, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age: 60 years or older
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of Haryana
- Income: The combined annual income of the applicant and their spouse should not exceed Rs. 3,00,000
It’s important to note that individuals receiving a pension from any government body, local authority, or organization largely funded by the government are not eligible for this allowance.
The Benefits: A Closer Look
The Old Age Samman Allowance provides significant financial support to eligible seniors. As of January 2024, the monthly pension amount has been increased to Rs. 3,000. This regular income can make a substantial difference in the lives of elderly citizens, helping them meet their basic needs and maintain their independence.
How to Apply for the Old Age Samman Allowance
Applying for the Old Age Samman Allowance is a straightforward process, with both online and offline options available.
Online Application Process:
- Visit the Antyodaya SARAL Portal (https://saralharyana.gov.in)
- Register or log in to your account
- Select “Old Age Samman Allowance” from the list of services
- Fill out the application form with accurate information
- Upload the required documents
- Submit the application
Offline Application Process:
- Obtain the application form from your local government office
- Fill out the form completely
- Attach all necessary documents
- Submit the completed form and documents to the office
Required Documents
To apply for the Old Age Samman Allowance, you’ll need to provide the following documents:
- Proof of residence in Haryana (domicile certificate)
- Aadhaar card
- Age proof (birth certificate, mark sheet, or voter ID card)
- Passport-size photograph
- Income certificate
- Caste certificate (if applicable)
- Bank account details
The Application Review Process
Once you’ve submitted your application, it goes through a verification process:
- The District Social Welfare Officer reviews the application and supporting documents
- If approved, the applicant is added to the list of beneficiaries
- The pension amount is then credited directly to the beneficiary’s bank account on a monthly basis
Tracking Your Application
Applicants can easily check the status of their Old Age Samman Allowance application:
- Online: Visit the SARAL portal and enter your application ID
- SMS: Send a message with “SARALApplication ID” to 9954699899 or 7738299899
The Evolution of the Scheme
The Old Age Samman Allowance has come a long way since its inception. Here’s a brief timeline of its development:
- 1964: Scheme launched with a monthly pension of Rs. 15
- 1987: Pension increased to Rs. 100 for those aged 65 and above
- 1991: Age requirement lowered to 60 years
- 2014: Monthly pension raised to Rs. 1,000
- 2021: Pension amount increased to Rs. 2,500
- 2024: Current pension amount set at Rs. 3,000 per month
These incremental increases reflect the government’s commitment to improving the scheme and adapting it to the changing needs of senior citizens.
Impact and Reach of the Scheme
The Old Age Samman Allowance has had a significant impact on Haryana’s elderly population. As of 2023-24, the scheme benefits over 17.85 lakh senior citizens in the state. The government has allocated a substantial budget of Rs. 5,538 crores for the fiscal year 2023-24 to support this initiative.
Conclusion
The Old Age Samman Allowance scheme stands as a testament to Haryana’s commitment to its senior citizens. By providing financial support, the scheme not only helps meet the basic needs of the elderly but also reinforces their dignity and independence. As the program continues to evolve and improve, it promises to be a crucial safety net for generations of seniors to come.
