Planning for retirement and financial support is essential for everyone, including those with disabilities. While traditional pension plans can be a good support, those who face physical or mental disabilities may need extra help. The Viklang Pension Yojana is a state-run welfare initiative aimed at financially supporting disabled individuals in Uttar Pradesh. It ensures a basic level of income for those who are unable to earn a livelihood. Let’s learn more about the Viklang Pension Yojana, including the eligibility, required documents, application process, and more.
What is the Viklang Pension Yojana?
Launched in 2016 by the Government of Uttar Pradesh, the Viklang Pension Yojana is designed to offer financial support to physically and mentally disabled residents of the state.
Under this scheme, eligible individuals receive a monthly pension of ₹500, directly credited to their bank account. This financial aid ensures a minimum level of support for daily living expenses, especially for those who are not part of other pension plans or are unable to work.
Eligibility Criteria for the Viklang Pension Yojana
To apply for the Viklang Pension Yojana, applicants must fulfil specific criteria:
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Uttar Pradesh.
- Applicants must be between 18 and 26 years of age.
- The degree of disability affecting the person should be at least 40%.
- The applicant’s family income should not exceed ₹1,000 per month.
Individuals who own any two-wheeler or three-wheeler vehicle are not eligible. Anyone already receiving benefits from another divyang pension yojana or any other welfare scheme is not eligible. Government employees, even if disabled, are not eligible.
Application Process for the Viklang Pension Yojana
Follow these steps to apply for the Viklang Pension Yojana:
Step 1. Go to the Uttar Pradesh Integrated Pension Portal.
Step 2. From the homepage, click on ‘Disabled and Leprosy Pension’ under the schemes section.
Step 3. Click on ‘Apply Online’ to open the application form.
Step 4. Enter personal information, bank details, income information, and disability specifics.
Step 5. Attach the required soft copies of documents in the specified format.
Step 6. After reviewing all details, click ‘Submit’ to complete the application process.
Once submitted, your application will be reviewed. Once approved, the pension amount will begin to be credited monthly.
Documents Required for the Viklang Pension Yojana
To successfully apply for the Viklang Pension Yojana, applicants must upload the following documents:
Disability Certificate
Issued by a government hospital, Community Health Centre, Primary Health Centre, or Chief Medical Officer. For hearing or mental disabilities, it should be issued by Ram Manohar Lohia Joint Hospital, Lucknow.
Age Proof
A birth certificate or a Class 10th certificate can serve as age proof.
Identity Proof
Either of these documents can serve as identity proof:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- Ration Card
Income Certificate
This should be issued by any of the following authorities:
- MLA or MP
- Mayor or Nagar Panchayat Chairman/ District Panchayat President
- Tehsildar or Block Development Officer
Bank Details
A passbook copy of any savings account.
Passport-Size Photograph
Recent coloured photo under 20KB in digital format.
How to Check the Status of Your Application?
Once your application is submitted, you can easily track its status online by following these steps:
Step 1. Go to sspy-up.gov.in, the UP Integrated Pension Portal.
Step 2. Find the ‘Application Status’ option on the homepage and click on it.
Step 3. If required, register as a user and create a secure password.
Step 4. From the dropdown, choose Viklang Pension Scheme.
Step 5. Input your application number, bank account number, and security captcha.
Step 6. Click ‘Submit’ and your application status will appear on the screen.
These steps can help you check whether your Viklang pension is approved or if additional information is needed.
Supplementing Viklang Pension with Additional Support
While the Viklang Pension Yojana provides essential monthly support, the amount may not always be sufficient to cover all living or medical expenses.
For individuals or families with slightly more financial flexibility, exploring additional savings or private pension plans can be a helpful step.
It is important to note that private pension schemes are not necessary to access any divyang yojana benefits and may not be suitable for everyone. However, for those who are able to contribute small amounts regularly, either independently or with family support, certain low-cost or flexible pension plans can serve as a financial backup for the future. It is also crucial that you do know how pension plans work and how they benefit you before you opt for them.
How Private Pension Plans May Help:
- An extra income source in later years.
- Coverage for unexpected medical or caregiving costs.
- Peace of mind through guaranteed returns (guaranteed pension options).
- Flexibility in how and when you receive funds.
Government-backed schemes, such as the Atal Pension Yojana, may also be explored for small, consistent savings.
Choosing to supplement your Viklang pension payout is a personal decision. It should only be made after considering your current income, needs, and long-term plans. If you are unsure, seeking help from a social worker or advisor can provide clarity.
The Viklang Pension Yojana is a much-needed initiative to help financially weaker disabled individuals in Uttar Pradesh. With simple eligibility criteria and an online application process, it offers consistent monthly support and can ensure dignity and stability for those in need. Knowing how such pension plans work can help you or your loved ones apply with confidence.