Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has introduced the 2026 UP Sadhu Pension Scheme for religious figures. All eligible seers are set to receive a recurring monthly pension under this program, which has received formal approval from the state cabinet. During a recent high-level session, CM Yogi Adityanath announced plans to host dedicated enrollment camps to register saints for this pioneering government welfare initiative.
The 2026 UP Sadhu Pension Program is designed to accommodate all saints, including those who are nomadic or lack permanent housing. The Chief Minister has also established a specific classification to benefit elderly sadhus. As a prominent figure in Hindutva, CM Yogi Adityanath intends to demonstrate his commitment to the community ahead of the upcoming state assembly elections by extending this financial support to the saints.
Yogi Adityanath Launches Pension Scheme for Saints
CM Yogi Adityanath has officially launched the 2026 UP Sadhu Pension Scheme. Through this welfare measure for Uttar Pradesh's religious community, the monthly allowance is being increased from Rs. 400 to Rs. 500. This implementation strategy was finalized during a meeting at the Prayagraj Kumbh, chaired by the Chief Minister himself.
Every saint and sadhu residing in Uttar Pradesh who is over the age of 60 will be eligible for the 2026 Saint Pension Scheme. Furthermore, the CM has previously enhanced financial assistance for existing state programs supporting the elderly, disabled individuals, and widows.
The core goal of the 2026 UP Seers Pension Scheme is to improve the quality of life for the elderly, disabled, widowed, and monastic populations within the state. The UP government officially commenced the registration process for sadhus on January 20th.
Public and Political Views on the Seer Pension Scheme
Former Chief Minister Akhilesh Yadav criticized the state's financial aid for seers, suggesting that the government should provide a monthly pension of Rs. 20,000 instead. He further called for the reinstatement of the Samajwadi pension program and proposed that recipients of the previous Yash Bharti award should be granted an honorarium of Rs. 50,000.
Additionally, the former CM advocated for pension benefits to be extended to village-level Ramayan performers and artists who enact the roles of Lord Rama, Sita, Bharat, and Ravana.
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