The State Government under CM Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu has significantly strengthened the social security framework, placing inclusive growth, welfare and social justice at the centre of governance. Through progressive reforms and people-centric initiatives, the government has ensured timely, transparent and dignified delivery of benefits to the most vulnerable sections of society.
A major reform includes the removal of the income ceiling and Gram Sabha approval requirement for widowed, deserted and single women, as well as persons with 40–69 percent disability seeking social security pensions. This move has simplified procedures and improved access, particularly for women and persons with disabilities.
As a result, nearly 8.42 lakh beneficiaries are currently availing social security pensions across the state. These include senior citizens, widows, single women and Divyaangjans under various schemes. Over the last three years, 99,799 new beneficiaries have been added, reflecting the government’s sustained efforts to widen the social safety net.
To enhance financial security, the monthly pension for women up to 69 years of age was increased to Rs. 1,500 from February 2024. The Chief Minister has also directed departments to expedite pending payments under the Indira Gandhi Pyari Behna Sukh Samman Nidhi Yojana, with special focus on remote and tribal areas such as Pangi, Lahaul-Spiti, Dodra Kwar and Kupvi.
The welfare of Divyaangjans has received special attention through universal disability relief allowances without income limits, with pensions ranging from Rs. 1,150 to Rs. 1,700 per month. Divyaang students are also supported through scholarships of Rs. 625 to Rs. 5,000 per month, benefiting over 3,100 students.
In addition, marriage incentive grants of Rs. 25,000 to Rs. 50,000 are provided for marriages involving Divyaang persons, while Divyaangjans and elderly residents of special homes receive festival assistance under the Utsav Anudan scheme.
The government is also leveraging modern IT-based systems for beneficiary identification and pension disbursement to ensure transparency and timely payments.
Overall, these initiatives mark a shift towards a compassionate and inclusive governance model, reinforcing social security as a right and bringing welfare closer to every household in Himachal Pradesh.
Nurturing Creativity – Keekli Charitable Trust, Shimla
