New Delhi, Jun 9 (PTI) An additional 72.32 lakh persons in the age group of 60-64 years and living below the poverty line will get pension benefits with the Government today lowering the age limit to 60.
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Manmohan Singh also decided to increase the rate of pension to persons of 80 years and above from Rs 200 to Rs 500.
The revised norms would be applicable with effect from April 1 this year and total additional requirement will be Rs 2,770 crore for implementing the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme-- part of the National Social Assistance Programme of the Central government.
"It is estimated that lowering of the age limit would benefit about an additional 72.32 lakh persons in the age group of 60-64 years and living below the poverty line. It is estimated that 26.