The decision also extends government funding for outreach, development work and gap funding to keep the scheme financially viable.
The approval ensures that workers without formal retirement benefits will keep getting access to a guaranteed pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month from the age of 60, based on their contributions.
The scheme gives income security in old age and supports financial inclusion across rural and informal sectors.
The Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, cleared continued government support for awareness campaigns, capacity building and other developmental activities to expand APY’s reach among unorganised workers. It also approved ongoing gap funding to meet the scheme’s sustainability needs.
Launched on May 9, 2015, APY aims to build a pensioned society by encouraging small but regular savings from workers who do not have access to formal pension systems. The scheme has become a key part of India’s social security framework.
As of January 19, 2026, more than 8.66 crore people have enrolled under APY. The government said sustained support is needed to keep awareness high, strengthen implementation and ensure the scheme remains stable in the long run.