GS PrelimsGovernance and social sectorGovernance2008

Consider the following statements with reference to Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS): 1. All persons of 60 years or above belonging to the households below poverty line in rural areas are eligible. 2. The Central Assistance under this Scheme is at the rate of Rs 300 per month per beneficiary. Under the Scheme, States have been urged to give matching amounts. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A

1 only

B

2 only

C

Both 1 and 2

D

Neither 1 nor 2

Correct Answer: Option D

Explanation

1. Statement 1: The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS) was launched in 2007, initially covering BPL persons aged 65 years and above. The age was lowered to 60 years later (in 2011). The scheme also covered both rural and urban areas. Therefore, stating eligibility for 60 years or above and only rural areas is inaccurate for the scheme's status around 2008. Statement 1 is incorrect. 2. Statement 2: The Central Assistance under this Scheme, when launched in 2007 for the 65+ age group, was Rs 200 per month per beneficiary. The amount of Rs 300 was applicable later and usually for the 80+ age group. While States were indeed urged to give matching amounts, the central assistance rate mentioned (Rs 300) is incorrect for the general beneficiary category (60/65+) at that time. Statement 2 is incorrect. 3. Neither statement is correct.

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