Introduction: The Pension Dilemma in India
India’s senior citizen population is rapidly growing, and so are their financial and health-related needs. One significant concern raised in the Lok Sabha was about the age threshold for receiving additional pension. Currently, 20% extra pension is provided only after the age of 80, but a Parliamentary Standing Committee recommended that it should begin from 65 years to better support aging pensioners.
What is Additional Pension?
Under the current system recommended by the 6th Central Pay Commission, pensioners receive additional pension as follows:
| Age | Additional Pension (%) |
|---|---|
| 80 | 20% |
| 85 | 30% |
| 90 | 40% |
| 95 | 50% |
| 100 | 100% |
This increment is justified by the government citing increased medical and personal expenses at advanced ages.
The Parliamentary Question
On March 19, 2025, in Lok Sabha Question No. 2991, MPs Shri Manickam Tagore B and Shri Vijay Vasanth raised critical concerns regarding:
- Why the age limit for additional pension is 80?
- Why not reduce it to 65, as recommended by the 110th Parliamentary Standing Committee on Pensioners’ Grievances?
- How many pensioners would benefit if the age threshold is reduced?
- What would be the estimated annual cost?
- What steps are being taken to ensure:
- Timely and transparent disbursement of additional pension.
- Inclusion of state government pensioners and other retirees.
- Protection of pensioners’ income against rising inflation.
Government’s Official Response
Dr. Jitendra Singh, Minister of State for Personnel, Public Grievances & Pensions and PMO, responded that:
- Current structure is based on 6th Pay Commission recommendations.
- Additional pension is tied to progressive age-related needs.
- The suggestion to lower the threshold to 65 years is not accepted as of now.
- Pension amounts already rise with Dearness Relief (DR) to compensate for inflation.
The rationale: Older pensioners face greater challenges, especially medical costs, justifying higher benefits only at advanced ages.
📊 Impact of Lowering the Threshold to 65 Years
While the government has not shared official projections, if implemented:
- Crores of pensioners between 65 and 79 would benefit.
- The financial burden on the exchequer would increase, but would significantly enhance quality of life and reduce elder poverty.
- Could ensure better healthcare access, nutritional support, and dignity for the aged population.
✅ Why the Proposal Makes Sense
- Longevity Trends: Life expectancy has improved; many don’t live till 80 to enjoy benefits.
- Rising Medical Costs: Health issues begin prominently post-60; costs surge by 65.
- Early Support is Key: Timely financial aid can prevent deterioration in senior citizens’ quality of life.
- Social Justice: A welfare state must prioritize its aging citizens with preventive care, not just late compensation.
❌ Why the Government is Reluctant
- Huge fiscal implications given the large number of pensioners.
- Adherence to Pay Commission framework.
- May open similar demands across other benefit slabs, complicating policy consistency.
📣 Citizens’ Expectations and the Way Forward
While the current policy helps pensioners at very old age, starting additional pension at 65 would be a bold, humane, and just welfare measure. With India’s economic growth and evolving demographics, the government must reconsider the 110th Parliamentary Committee’s recommendation.
Additionally, steps must be taken to:
- Simplify and automate disbursement of pension benefits.
- Ensure transparency and accountability in pension processing.
- Link pension increases more dynamically to inflation and cost of living index.
Final Thought and Implemenation of the proposal
India’s aging population deserves proactive and timely support. Implementing additional pension from 65 years, as recommended by the Parliamentary Committee, is a progressive move that aligns with both economic reality and social responsibility. It’s time the government revisits and reconsiders this important reform for the dignity and well-being of our senior citizens.
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