The National Social Assistance Program (NSAP) is a government scheme in India started to support people with money problems. It offers financial help to groups such as senior citizens, widows, disabled people, and families facing unemployment or illness. This scheme is very useful for those going through tough times and needing financial support.
About the NSAP Scheme 2025
Started by the Indian government in 1995, the NSAP scheme gives financial help to poor families across India. Whether you live in a village or a city, this scheme is made to assist anyone in need. It provides monthly pension amounts and food supplies to help people cover their basic needs.
Under this scheme, senior citizens get up to INR 500 per month. Widows and persons with disabilities can also get similar financial support. The scheme includes the Annapurna Scheme, which provides food grains and cooking essentials to those who can’t afford them.
Main Details of NSAP Scheme
| Name of the Scheme | National Social Assistance Program (NSAP) |
| Launched By | Government of India |
| Year of Launch | 1995 |
| Purpose | Provide financial support to needy citizens |
| Who Can Benefit | Senior citizens, widows, disabled and poor families |
| Eligibility Requirements | Resident of India, Below Poverty Line (BPL) category |
| Application Mode | Online and Offline |
| Official Website | https://nsap.nic.in/ |
| Helpline Number | 1800-111-555 |
What Does NSAP Scheme Include?
- Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)
- Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)
- Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS)
- National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS)
- Annapurna Scheme for providing food grains
Financial Benefits Offered by NSAP in 2025
- IGNOAPS: Citizens aged 60 years will get INR 200 per month. Those above 79 years can receive up to INR 500 monthly.
- IGNDPS: Disabled female citizens aged above 40 get INR 300 per month, increasing to INR 500 after age 80.
- NFBS: A one-time benefit of INR 20,000 to eligible families on the death of the primary breadwinner.
Main Features of the NSAP Scheme
- Helps people with money problems meet their basic needs and live with dignity.
- Offers monthly pension benefits to senior citizens, widows, and disabled persons.
- Provides essential food support through the Annapurna Scheme.
- Simple and easy process to apply both online and offline.
- Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) makes sure money goes straight into beneficiaries’ accounts quickly and safely.
Who Can Apply? Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a permanent resident of India.
- Should belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
- Must be a senior citizen, widow, or a person with disability.
How Are New Beneficiaries Selected?
- Local Gram Panchayat or Municipal authorities pick eligible beneficiaries based on the current BPL list.
- Applicants must submit a filled application form.
- Age proof such as birth certificate or school certificate is required; in its absence, ration card or voter ID may be accepted.
- Widows need a certificate from the state revenue authority.
- Persons with disabilities are identified through camps arranged by the state government, with transport provided free of charge.
Annual Verification for Existing Beneficiaries
- Beneficiaries must go through yearly verification to keep receiving benefits.
- Verification teams include government officials and NGOs working in the area.
- After verification, lists of confirmed and removed beneficiaries are published.
- Those removed can file claims or objections within 15 days.
Process Timelines
| Verification after Application | 15 days |
| Gram Sabha or Ward Approval | 20 days |
| Gram Panchayat or Municipality Approval | 15 days |
| Pension Sanction | 10 days |
| Appeal Disposal (if not sanctioned) | 15 days |
| Second Appeal Disposal | 15 days |
How to Apply for NSAP Scheme Online 2025
Step 1: Visit the official NSAP portal via UMANG website.
Step 2: Click on “login / register” and enter your mobile number and MPIN to log in.
Step 3: On the dashboard, search “NSAP” and select it from the options.
Step 4: Click “Apply Now” to open the application form.
Step 5: Choose the specific pension scheme you want to apply for and fill in your personal details, address, bank account, and Aadhaar number.
Step 6: Review the entered information carefully and click “Submit” to complete your application.
How to Apply Offline for NSAP Scheme
- Download or collect the NSAP application form from your local government office.
- Fill the form with your details including name, date of birth, category, address, and bank details.
- Submit the completed form to your local Gram Panchayat or Municipal office.
- Your application will be checked, and if eligible, you will be added as a beneficiary under NSAP.
Important Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who can get benefits from NSAP Scheme 2025?
Any Indian citizen who has money problems and meets the eligibility criteria can apply.
What is NSAP Scheme?
NSAP stands for National Social Assistance Program, which offers financial help and other support to poor and at risk people.