Madhya Pradesh Cabinet Approves Major Reforms in Pension and Welfare Schemes
In a landmark decision aimed at enhancing social security and welfare, the Madhya Pradesh state cabinet, under the leadership of Chief Minister Mohan Yadav, has approved significant amendments to the state's pension rules alongside substantial funding allocations for tribal development and rural electrification projects.
Expanded Family Pension Eligibility for Daughters
The cabinet meeting, held on Tuesday, resulted in the approval of a crucial modification to the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Pension) Rules. This amendment now extends family pension eligibility to unmarried, widowed, and divorced daughters of state government employees. Previously, the pension was restricted to spouses, dependent parents, and dependent children up to the age of 25.
Minister for MSME Chaitanya Kashyap, while briefing the media, emphasized the progressive nature of this decision, stating, "The cabinet has approved the provision made for divorced daughters of employees to now claim family pension, ensuring greater financial security for women in vulnerable situations."
The official state government release clarified that under Rule 44 of the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Pension) Rules, 2026, these daughters have been formally included among eligible members for family pension. Additionally, the Council of Ministers approved the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Implementation of National Pension System) Rules, 2026, and the Madhya Pradesh Civil Services (Payment of Gratuity under the National Pension System) Rules, 2026. These rules are scheduled to take effect from April 1, 2026, with the Finance Department authorized to publish them.
Substantial Funding for Tribal and Child Development Schemes
In a parallel move to bolster social welfare, the cabinet sanctioned a massive allocation of Rs 7,133.17 crore for the continuation of schemes under the tribal affairs and women and child development departments from 2026-27 to 2030-31. The breakdown of this funding includes:
- Rs 2,350 crore for the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTG) Dietary Grant Scheme under the tribal affairs department.
- Rs 1,703.15 crore for the Integrated Hostel Scheme.
- Rs 1,416.91 crore for the CM Rise School Scheme.
- Rs 1,110 crore for the Housing Assistance Scheme.
- Rs 522.8 crore for fee reimbursement to the Board of Secondary Education and scholarships for Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe candidates.
- Rs 31.3 crore for the Chief Minister's COVID-19 Child Service Scheme of the women and child development department.
Electrification Initiatives for Rural Households
Furthering its commitment to rural development, the cabinet approved Rs 366.72 crore for the electrification of 63,077 unelectrified households and 650 unelectrified government institutions. This project falls under the Dharti Aba Tribal Village Upliftment Campaign and involves expanding electrical infrastructure. The funding comprises a central government grant of Rs 220.03 crore and a state government share of Rs 146.69 crore.
Additionally, an estimated cost of Rs 97 crore was approved for the off-grid electrification of 8,521 households, ensuring energy access in remote areas.
Age Relaxation for IT Cadre Employees
In a decision impacting government recruitment, the council of ministers approved a one-time, five-year age relaxation for employees working in the IT cadre of the High Court and District Courts. This relaxation allows them to participate in ongoing and future recruitment processes for the technical cadre. Currently, the age limit stands at 40 years for the unreserved category and 45 years for the reserved category, making this adjustment a significant opportunity for existing staff.
These comprehensive approvals reflect the Madhya Pradesh government's focused approach on social justice, tribal welfare, infrastructure development, and administrative reforms, aiming to create a more inclusive and developed state.
