The Uttar Pradesh Social Welfare Department has announced that identification and verification of eligible beneficiaries for the old-age pension scheme will now be conducted automatically using the Family ID ‘Ek Parivar Ek Pehchan’ (One Family One Identity) system. This move ensures that pensions will begin automatically for individuals as soon as they turn 60.
The system will initially be implemented on a pilot basis in Amethi, Kasganj, Gorakhpur, Lalitpur, and Basti. A detailed Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) for all districts will be prepared within 30 days, as instructed by Additional Chief Secretary (Social Welfare) L Venkateshwar Lu.
Currently, around 6.75 million elderly residents in the state receive old-age pension benefits. Under the new system, eligible individuals will no longer need to apply separately. Family ID data will automatically identify beneficiaries aged 60 or above, including those turning 60 in the next 90 days.
Officials have been directed to ensure timely approval and Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) of pensions, with consent obtained via mobile SMS, WhatsApp, or phone call. Additional measures will include life certificate verification, preparation of a suspect list, prevention of incorrect payments, and regular data reviews. Cases involving deceased or ineligible beneficiaries will be promptly addressed.
Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Social Welfare, Asim Arun, said the initiative aims to provide a dignified pension for every eligible person, bringing significant relief to hundreds of thousands of elderly citizens.