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The objectives of the present study were to know about the awareness level of the elderly regarding Old age pension (OAP) scheme and how the elderly benefited from the scheme according to their socio-economic status. The study was based on a sample of 600 aged people (Male+303 and Female+297) of age varying from 60 years and above, belonging to rural areas of 'Uttar Pradesh' of India. The sample was drawn by applying a multistage random sampling technique. Chi-square test and logistic regression analysis were carried out to analyse the data. The findings indicate that male, widow/widower, elderly aged 80 and above, SC/ST's elderly with low socio-economic status and having bad health were more frequently availing the OAP scheme; and this scheme is supporting the elderly to live life with dignity and respect. It was found that in later life, being a non-productive member of the family is the main reason behind the poor status of the elderly in India. Due to this reason, family members treat them as a liability and the elderly started losing the respect in the family. OAP scheme enabled the elderly to contribute in the family expenditure and lead their life with dignity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article examines the awareness level of elderlies regarding the old age pension (OAP) scheme in rural Utttar Pradesh, India. It was found that non-productivity of elderlies is the main reason behind their poor status, hence elderlies are treated as liabilities in India. It concludes that the OAP has enabled the elderlies to contribute to family expenditure and to live life with dignity and respect.