<h1>Old-Age Pension Scheme Expanded to 67.5 Lakh Beneficiaries with Direct Aadhaar-Linked Payments</h1> The Uttar Pradesh government has extended its old-age pension scheme to 61 lakh beneficiaries in the first quarter of 2025-26, surpassing its target and subsequently raising it to 67.50 lakh. The scheme provides Rs 1,000 monthly to eligible individuals aged 60 and above with specified income limits. The introduction of a single nodal account system ensures direct, Aadhaar-linked digital transfers, eliminating intermediaries and enhancing transparency, auditability, and timely disbursement. Since its expansion in 2017, the scheme's reach has nearly doubled, with increasing annual budget allocations. Applications can be submitted online, with verification handled by designated local authorities. The government also commits to including all eligible individuals beyond the target, reinforcing the scheme as a key welfare measure for financially vulnerable senior citizens.