Lucknow: The Uttar Pradesh government is developing a new automated system under which eligible citizens in the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category will start receiving pension benefits automatically once they turn 60, said Minister of State (Independent Charge) for Social Welfare, Scheduled Caste and Tribal Welfare, Asim Arun, at the TOI conclave on Thursday.
Reforms in Social Welfare
Speaking about reforms in the social welfare department, Arun stated that nearly 67 lakh people are currently benefiting from various pension schemes in the state. He elaborated that the government is finalising software that will utilise official government data to identify eligible beneficiaries and initiate pension payments without requiring senior citizens to submit forms or repeatedly visit government offices.
According to the minister, the proposed system aims to reduce delays, paperwork, and corruption while ensuring timely delivery of benefits directly into beneficiaries' bank accounts. The move is expected to streamline the process and enhance transparency in welfare distribution.
Scholarship Schemes on Auto-Mode
The minister added that scholarship schemes are also being shifted to an "auto-mode" system to ensure smoother and transparent delivery of benefits. The government is currently providing scholarships to nearly 10 lakh students and is working to resolve technical and banking issues faced by around 96,000 students who were previously left out of the scheme.
Free Coaching Initiative
Arun also highlighted the government's free coaching initiative for competitive examinations. According to him, around 4,200 students have appeared in examinations after receiving coaching support under the programme. "The scheme is designed to provide equal opportunity to students from all backgrounds by offering quality coaching free of cost," he said.
Rehabilitation Over Criminalisation of Begging
On the issue of begging and rehabilitation, Arun clarified that the government does not intend to criminalise begging. Instead, the focus will remain on rehabilitation measures and creating dignified livelihood opportunities for vulnerable and homeless sections of society.
Technology-Driven Governance
The minister said that technology-driven governance, direct benefit transfer systems, Aadhaar-linked verification, and command centres have reduced corruption and increased transparency in welfare delivery. He expressed confidence about the future, stating that Uttar Pradesh is steadily progressing towards the vision of a "Viksit Bharat" and emerging as a leading state in governance, welfare delivery, and industrial growth.
