Central Ministries: Persons with Annual Income Below ₹3 Lakh

Central Legal and Economic Support

National Legal Services Authority (NALSA)

The primary body providing free legal aid to persons based on income ceilings set by the respective State Legal Services Authorities.

Key Schemes:

NALSA Income-Based Legal Aid

Provides legal services and counsel to citizens whose annual income does not exceed the limit prescribed by the state (often ₹3,00,000 or more).

✅ Benefits:

  • Free representation, waiver of court fees, and provision of certified copies.

📝 Eligibility Criteria:

  • General category persons with annual income below the state-prescribed limit.
  • Affidavit declaring low income status.
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Ministry of Rural Development (BPL Schemes)

Manages poverty alleviation and social security schemes specifically for households identified as Below Poverty Line (BPL).

Key Schemes:

National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP)

Umbrella program for social security pensions (Old Age, Widow, Disability) where BPL status (low income) is the fundamental eligibility criterion.

✅ Benefits:

  • Monthly pension/financial assistance (central share: ₹200-₹500).

📝 Eligibility Criteria:

  • Must be certified BPL household.
  • Must meet status criteria (age 60+, widow, or disabled).
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MGNREGP (Employment Guarantee)

Guarantees wage employment for rural households to support low-income families in securing a basic livelihood.

✅ Benefits:

  • Guaranteed 100 days of employment in rural areas.

📝 Eligibility Criteria:

  • Any rural household adult member.
  • Willingness to do unskilled manual work.
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