 Early Times Report
JAMMU, Jan 23: Welcoming the Union Cabinet's landmark decision to extend the Atal Pension Yojana (APY) up to FY 2030-31, Jammu Kashmir BJP Spokesperson and former Vice Chairman Balbir Ram Rattan hailed the move as a strong reaffirmation of the Narendra Modi government's unwavering commitment to social justice, financial inclusion and dignified ageing for millions of Indians.
He said this while discussing the significance of Atal Pension Yojana with his party leaders Kissan Morcha President Rakesh Pant, Hans Raj Loria, Ramesh Chander Khajuria, Satish Shastri and Waryam Singh.
Balbir Ram Rattan said the decision marks a decisive milestone in India's journey towards becoming a truly pensioned society, providing assured old-age income security to workers in the unorganised and low-income sectors who form the backbone of the nation's economy.
"This extension significantly strengthens the social security net for citizens who have remained outside formal pension systems for decades. It clearly reflects the government's deep sensitivity towards the aspirations, hardships and vulnerabilities of the unorganised workforce," he said.
Highlighting the impact of the scheme, Balbir Ram Rattan noted that the Atal Pension Yojana was envisioned as a reliable, affordable and accessible pension solution for workers in the unorganised sector. The scheme provides a guaranteed minimum monthly pension ranging from Rs. 1,000 to Rs. 5,000, starting at the age of 60, depending on the subscriber's contribution amount and duration. Over the past decade, APY has emerged as one of the most transformative and impactful social security initiatives in independent India. He further emphasized that continued government involvement and support are crucial to expanding awareness about the scheme, strengthening institutional mechanisms, and bridging existing gaps in coverage so that its benefits reach the last person standing in the queue.
Balbir Ram Rattan said that the extension of Atal Prnsion Yojna till 2030-31 aligns seamlessly with the national vision of Viksit Bharat @2047. He said that by ensuring economic security, dignity and stability in old age, the Atal Pension Yojana is laying a strong foundation for inclusive, equitable and sustainable national development. |
