The Atal Pension Yojana (APY), one of India’s flagship social security schemes, has been in the spotlight after questions were raised about a possible increase in pension amounts. With over 8.4 crore subscribers enrolled, the scheme plays a crucial role in providing financial security to workers in the unorganised sector. The government has now clearly stated its position on whether the minimum guaranteed pension under APY will be revised.

What Is Atal Pension Yojana?

Launched in May 2015, the Atal Pension Yojana aims to build a strong and universal social security framework in the country. The scheme is designed primarily for low-income individuals, especially those working in the unorganised sector, who often lack access to formal pension benefits.

Under APY, subscribers are entitled to a guaranteed monthly pension ranging from ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 after the age of 60. The pension amount depends on the option chosen by the subscriber at the time of enrolment. Monthly contributions vary based on the selected pension slab and the age at which a person joins the scheme. Currently, contributions range from as low as ₹42 to a maximum of ₹1,454 per month.

Question Raised in Parliament

As the cost of living continues to rise, many APY subscribers have been hoping for an increase in the minimum pension amount. This concern was formally raised in Parliament, where members asked whether the government was considering revising the pension payouts to strengthen social security for unorganised sector workers.

The questions also covered whether there were any plans to restructure contribution amounts or introduce an inflation-linked pension mechanism under the scheme, so that retirees could better cope with rising expenses.

Government’s Clear Answer on Pension Hike

The government has categorically stated that there is no proposal at present to increase the pension amount under the Atal Pension Yojana. Responding to the query in a written reply in Parliament on December 15, 2025, Minister of State for Finance Pankaj Chaudhary explained the rationale behind the decision.

According to the government, increasing the guaranteed pension would automatically lead to higher monthly contributions. This, in turn, would place an additional financial burden on subscribers, many of whom belong to economically weaker sections. Keeping this in mind, the government has decided to continue the scheme under its existing structure and conditions.

How Many People Are Enrolled in APY?

Official data shows that the Atal Pension Yojana has witnessed remarkable growth over the years. As of November 30, 2025, a total of 8,45,17,419 individuals were enrolled in the scheme, which translates to approximately 8.4 crore subscribers. This wide participation highlights the growing awareness and trust in the scheme among citizens.

Pension Slabs and Subscriber Distribution

Data reveals that a majority of subscribers have opted for the lowest pension slab. About 86.91 percent of APY members—over 7.34 crore people—have chosen the ₹1,000 monthly pension option. The ₹2,000 pension slab accounts for around 3 percent of subscribers, while 1.41 percent have selected the ₹3,000 option.

The ₹4,000 pension slab has attracted 0.53 percent of subscribers. Interestingly, around 8.15 percent—nearly 68.7 lakh people—have opted for the maximum guaranteed pension of ₹5,000 per month, indicating that a significant number of subscribers are willing to make higher contributions for better retirement income.

Steady Rise in Enrolment Over the Years

Enrolment under the Atal Pension Yojana has consistently increased since its launch. In the financial year 2015–16, only about 24.8 lakh people joined the scheme. By the end of FY 2024–25, the total number of subscribers had crossed 7.6 crore.

The growth momentum has continued in the current financial year as well. Between April and November 30, 2025, over 84.26 lakh new subscribers joined APY, taking the total enrolment beyond 8.45 crore.

Core Objective of the Scheme

The government has reiterated that the primary objective of the Atal Pension Yojana is to provide reliable financial support during old age. The scheme was specifically designed for poor, vulnerable, and unorganised sector workers who do not have stable retirement income.

By offering a fixed and guaranteed pension, APY aims to ensure dignity and economic security in retirement. While there is currently no plan to increase pension amounts, the scheme continues to serve as a vital pillar of India’s social security system.