West Bengal, old age pension benefits are primarily provided through several sub-schemes under the Jai Bangla Scheme, which uniformized monthly payments at ₹1,000 per month as of 2026.
Key Old Age Pension Schemes
The state offers different pension sub-schemes based on the applicant’s category:
- Jai Johar Scheme: Specifically for senior citizens belonging to the Scheduled Tribe (ST) category.
- Toposili Bandhu Scheme: For senior citizens belonging to the Scheduled Caste (SC) category.
- Old Age Pension (General): For elderly individuals (aged 60+) who do not fall into the above categories and meet specific income criteria.
- Specialized Pensions: Available for Registered Farmers, Fishermen, and Artisans/Weavers.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age: Minimum 60 years (reduced to 55 years for physically or mentally handicapped individuals in certain general schemes).
- Residency: Must be a permanent resident of West Bengal for at least 10 years.
- Financial Status:
- For the General Old Age Pension, monthly income must not exceed ₹1,000.
- The applicant must not be a recipient of any other government pension (Central or State).
- Caste Requirement: Must provide a valid SC/ST certificate for the Toposili Bandhu or Jai Johar schemes.
Required Documents
- Self-attested copy of Aadhaar Card.
- Voter ID (EPIC) and Ration Card.
- Caste Certificate (for SC/ST schemes).
- Bank Passbook copy (showing IFSC and Account Number).
- Income Certificate (Self-declaration or from local authority).
- Passport-sized photograph.
How to Apply
Applications can be made through the following channels:
- Online: Visit the official Jai Bangla Portal to apply or track status.
- Offline: Obtain “Form P” free of cost from:
- Rural Areas: Office of the Block Development Officer (BDO).
- Municipal Areas: Office of the Sub-Divisional Officer (SDO).
- Duare Sarkar: Applications are also accepted during periodic Duare Sarkar camps organized by the state government.