Senior Citizen Government Schemes in India – Complete Guide

The Government of India runs a wide network of welfare schemes designed to support the elderly – from guaranteed pensions and free healthcare to subsidized travel and housing. This guide breaks down every major central and state-level scheme available to senior citizens, who can apply, how to apply, and what documents you need.

Official Sources: Information verified against Ministry of Social Justice & Empowerment, National Portal of India, and respective state government portals.
Aruna Sane

Written by Aruna Sane

Last reviewed: 15 September 2026 | Senior Citizen Information Researcher

Overview of Central Government Schemes

The Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, and Ministry of Finance administer the majority of schemes for senior citizens. These schemes are broadly categorized into:

  • Pension Schemes – Monthly income support for elderly citizens
  • Healthcare Schemes – Medical treatment, insurance, and assistive devices
  • Savings Schemes – High-interest investment options for seniors
  • Travel Concessions – Discounted fares on railways, airlines, and buses
  • Housing Schemes – Dedicated quotas and affordable housing
  • Welfare Programmes – Holistic support including elder care homes and helplines

1. Pension Schemes

Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS)

IGNOAPS is the largest pension scheme for the elderly in India, operating under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). It provides monthly pensions to citizens aged 60+ from BPL families.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityAge 60+, BPL household, not receiving any other pension
Pension Amount₹200/month (age 60–79), ₹500/month (age 80+)
How to ApplyThrough Panchayat, Block Office, or NSAP portal
DocumentsAadhaar, BPL Certificate, Bank Passbook, Age Proof

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

A voluntary, government-backed pension scheme for citizens aged 18–40. Subscribers receive a guaranteed minimum pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month after age 60.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityAge 18–40, Indian citizen, bank account linked to Aadhaar
Pension Options₹1,000, ₹2,000, ₹3,000, ₹4,000, or ₹5,000 per month
Government Contribution50% of contribution (up to ₹1,000/year) for first 5 years
How to ApplyVisit your bank/post office branch or apply via net banking

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)

A senior citizens' pension scheme managed by LIC, offering guaranteed returns and monthly pension payouts.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityAge 60+, Indian citizen
Investment LimitMinimum ₹1,50,000; Maximum ₹15,00,000
Pension Rate7.4% guaranteed (annual)
Pension PaymentMonthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or yearly
Maturity10 years from date of purchase
How to ApplyVisit any LIC office or authorized bank

Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM)

A voluntary and contributory pension scheme for unorganised workers including senior citizens. Provides a monthly pension of ₹3,000 after age 60.

2. Healthcare Schemes

Ayushman Bharat – Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana (PMJAY) 70+

Extended in September 2024 to cover all senior citizens aged 70 and above regardless of income. Beneficiaries receive free treatment up to ₹5,00,000 per family per year at empanelled hospitals.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityAge 70+, any income category
Coverage₹5,00,000 per family per year
Card NameAyushman Vay Vandana Card
Hospital Network29,000+ empanelled hospitals across India
How to ApplyAyushman Bharat camps, empanelled hospitals, or beneficiary portal
DocumentsAadhaar Card, Age Proof

Central Government Health Scheme (CGHS)

Provides comprehensive healthcare to central government employees, pensioners, and their dependents through a network of Wellness Centres and empanelled hospitals.

  • Covers OPD, IPD, pharmacy, specialist consultations, and diagnostic tests
  • Available in 76 CGHS-covered cities
  • Monthly contribution: ₹250 (serving) / ₹650 (pensioner) for CGHS card

National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE)

A dedicated programme focusing on healthcare needs of the elderly, including:

  • Dedicated geriatric wards at district hospitals
  • Monthly health check-up camps at primary health centres
  • Home-based care for bedridden elderly
  • Training of healthcare workers in geriatric care

Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)

Provides free physical aids and assistive devices to senior citizens from BPL families, including hearing aids, wheelchairs, dentures, spectacle frames, and walking sticks.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityAge 60+, BPL, certified by a registered medical practitioner
Aids ProvidedHearing aids, dentures, wheelchairs, crutches, spectacle frames
How to ApplyDistrict Social Welfare Office or NHP portal

3. Savings Schemes

Senior Citizens Savings Scheme (SCSS)

A government-backed savings scheme with high returns and tax benefits, available at all post offices and authorized banks.

FeatureDetails
EligibilityAge 60+, Indian citizen, retired government employees (55+)
Interest Rate8.2% per annum (Q3 FY 2025–26)
Minimum Deposit₹1,000
Maximum Deposit₹30,00,000
Tenure5 years (extendable by 3 years)
Tax BenefitDeduction up to ₹1,50,000 under Section 80C
How to ApplyVisit any post office or authorized bank branch

Senior Citizen Fixed Deposits (Banks)

All major banks offer senior citizen FDs with 0.25% to 0.50% higher interest rates than regular FDs. Available for tenures from 7 days to 10 years.

Sukanya Samriddhi Yojana (for grandparents investing for grandchildren)

While not directly for senior citizens, grandparents can invest on behalf of girl children under 10, earning 8.2% interest with a 21-year lock-in.

4. Travel Concessions

Indian Railways

CategoryMinimum AgeConcession
Male Senior Citizen60 yearsUp to 40% on base fare
Female Senior Citizen58 yearsUp to 50% on base fare
Tatkal Booking60+ (Male), 58+ (Female)Concession applicable

Note: Senior citizen concession is currently available on the Indian Railways booking system. Present your age proof during ticket booking or travel.

Airlines

  • Air India: Up to 50% discount on base fare for passengers 60+
  • SpiceJet: Senior citizen fare on select domestic routes
  • IndiGo: Special fares available for senior citizens on select routes
  • GoFirst: Discounted fares for passengers 60+ (currently suspended)

State Transport

Most state transport corporations offer free or heavily subsidized bus travel for senior citizens. For example:

  • Delhi: Free travel on DTC buses for senior citizens 60+
  • Maharashtra: 50% concession on MSRTC buses
  • Karnataka: Free travel on KSRTC buses for seniors 65+
  • Tamil Nadu: Free travel on MTC buses for women 58+ and men 60+

5. Housing Schemes

Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY) – Senior Citizen Quota

Under PMAY Urban and PMAY Gramin, senior citizens can avail priority allotment in affordable housing projects. Key features:

  • Priority in EWS and LIG housing categories
  • 10–15% reservation in many state housing board projects
  • Interest subsidy of 3–6.5% on home loans for eligible seniors

Housing for Elderly by State Governments

  • Delhi: Ashiana Housing Scheme for senior citizens by DDA
  • Maharashtra: MHADA senior citizen quota in housing schemes
  • Karnataka: KHUD dedicated housing projects for elderly

6. Welfare Schemes

Integrated Programme for Older Persons (IPOP)

A scheme by the Ministry of Social Justice and Empowerment providing financial assistance to organizations running old age homes, day care centres, and mobile units for the elderly.

  • ₹20,000–₹50,000 per month per beneficiary at old age homes
  • Day care centres with recreational and health activities
  • Mobile units for home-based care in remote areas

SACRED (Senior Active Citizens Reducing Elder Discrimination)

An initiative to create a digital platform connecting senior citizens with volunteer services, including:

  • Tele-medicine consultations
  • Legal aid and counselling
  • Emergency response services
  • Skill development for active ageing

Vayoshreshtha Samman

A national award presented annually by the President of India to distinguished senior citizens who have made exceptional contributions to society. The award includes a citation, a memento, and a cash prize of ₹5,00,000.

Elderline (National Helpline for Senior Citizens)

A toll-free helpline (14567) providing free information, guidance, and emotional support to senior citizens. Available in multiple languages, 24/7.

State-specific Schemes

StateKey SchemeBenefit
DelhiSamaj Suvidha Yojana₹2,500/month pension for senior citizens
MaharashtraSanjay Gandhi Niradhar Anudan₹1,000–₹2,500/month for eligible seniors
KarnatakaSverna Sahaya Hasta₹1,000–₹2,000/month for BPL seniors
Tamil NaduOld Age Pension Scheme₹1,000–₹3,000/month for senior citizens
West BengalUniversal Pension Scheme₹1,000/month for all senior citizens
KeralaSanthwana KendraFree medical care and social support
RajasthanMukhyamantri Vayoshri Yojana₹750/month for eligible seniors

How to Apply for Each Scheme

The application process varies by scheme, but here is a general framework:

  1. Identify the scheme: Determine which scheme you are eligible for based on age, income, and state of residence
  2. Collect documents: Gather Aadhaar, age proof, income certificate, bank details, and photographs
  3. Visit the portal or office: Apply online through the designated portal or visit the local office
  4. Submit the application: Fill in all details accurately, upload documents, and pay any applicable fee
  5. Track the status: Use the application reference number to check progress

Required Documents (Universal)

DocumentPurpose
Aadhaar CardIdentity and age proof
Birth Certificate / Class 10 MarksheetAge verification
Income CertificateIncome-based eligibility
BPL CertificateBelow Poverty Line verification
Bank PassbookDirect Benefit Transfer (DBT)
Photographs (2–4)Card and application processing
Residence ProofState-level eligibility

Helpline Numbers

ServiceHelpline NumberAvailability
Elderline (National)1456724/7, Multi-language
Ayushman Bharat14555 / 1800-111-565Mon–Sat, 9 AM – 6 PM
NSAP Helpline011-23389966Mon–Fri, 9:30 AM – 6 PM
Senior Citizen Helpline (Maharashtra)1800-22-005224/7
Delhi Senior Citizen Helpline011-23388800Mon–Sat

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Which pension scheme gives the highest amount?

PM-SYM provides ₹3,000/month after age 60. SCSS provides returns on ₹30 lakh investment. IGNOAPS provides ₹200–₹500/month. The best option depends on your financial situation.

2. Can I avail multiple government schemes simultaneously?

Yes. Most schemes are independent. However, some pension schemes may have exclusivity clauses – check the specific scheme's terms.

3. Is there a single application for all schemes?

No. Each scheme requires a separate application through its designated portal or office.

4. What is the Ayushman Vay Vandana Card?

It is the beneficiary card issued under Ayushman Bharat 70+ for free healthcare treatment at empanelled hospitals.

5. How do I check my eligibility for PMJJBY or PMSBY?

PMJJBY (life insurance) requires age 18–50 with bank account. PMSBY (accident insurance) requires age 18–70. Senior citizens above 70 are not eligible for PMJJBY but can get PMSBY until age 70.

6. What is the interest rate for SCSS?

8.2% per annum as of Q3 FY 2025–26. Rates are revised quarterly by the government.

7. How do I apply for railway concession?

Select "Senior Citizen" concession while booking your train ticket online (IRCTC) or present your age proof at the counter. Concession is automatically applied on base fare.

8. Are there schemes for senior citizens living alone?

Yes. IPOP provides old age homes and day care centres. Elderline (14567) provides emergency support and counselling for isolated seniors.

9. Can BPL senior citizens get free healthcare?

Yes. Ayushman Bharat 70+ covers all seniors 70+ regardless of income. RVY provides free assistive devices. State hospitals provide free or subsidized treatment for BPL seniors.

10. What should I do if my application is rejected?

Check the rejection reason, gather additional documents if needed, and reapply. You can also file a grievance through the respective scheme's portal or approach the district social welfare officer.

Related Guides

Additional Pension and Welfare Schemes

Beyond the schemes listed above, the Government of India runs several more targeted programmes that provide significant financial security, healthcare support, and assistive aids to senior citizens and unorganised workers. Below is a detailed look at each of these schemes, including eligibility, contribution structures, and how to enrol.

Pradhan Mantri Shram Yogi Maandhan (PM-SYM)

PM-SYM is a voluntary, contributory pension scheme launched by the Ministry of Labour and Employment specifically for unorganised workers such as street vendors, rickshaw pullers, domestic workers, and others whose monthly income does not exceed ₹15,000. The scheme guarantees a minimum assured pension of ₹3,000 per month after attaining the age of 60, which can be a lifeline for workers who have no formal retirement benefits.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be an unorganised worker (self-employed or daily wage earner)
  • Monthly income should not exceed ₹15,000
  • Age should be between 18 and 40 years at the time of enrolment
  • Must have a savings bank account and Aadhaar-linked mobile number
  • Should not be covered under any statutory social security scheme (such as EPFO, ESI, or NPS)

Contribution Amounts Based on Entry Age

The monthly contribution is shared equally between the subscriber and the Government of India. The government matches your contribution, effectively doubling your investment. The exact monthly contribution depends on the age at which you enrol:

Entry AgeSubscriber's Monthly ContributionGovernment's Monthly ContributionTotal Monthly Contribution
18 years₹55₹55₹110
25 years₹80₹80₹160
30 years₹100₹100₹200
35 years₹150₹150₹300
40 years₹200₹200₹400

Key benefit: The earlier you enrol, the lower your monthly contribution. A worker who starts at age 18 pays just ₹55 per month (matched by the government) and receives ₹3,000 per month after turning 60.

Pension Payout

After completing 60 years of age and ensuring at least 10 years of contribution, the subscriber receives a guaranteed minimum pension of ₹3,000 per month. If the subscriber passes away before the spouse, the spouse can continue the scheme and receive 50% of the pension as a family pension. If both the subscriber and spouse pass away, the accumulated contribution is returned to the nominee.

How to Register

  1. Visit your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or register online at the Maandhan portal (maandhan.in)
  2. Provide your Aadhaar number, bank account details, and a passport-size photograph
  3. Choose your contribution tier based on your current age
  4. Set up auto-debit from your bank account for seamless monthly contributions
  5. Receive your Maandhan Yojana card with a unique subscriber ID

Required Documents

  • Aadhaar Card (linked to mobile number)
  • Savings Bank Account Passbook
  • Passport-size Photograph
  • Age proof (Birth certificate or Class 10 marksheet)

Pradhan Mantri Vaya Vandana Yojana (PMVVY)

PMVVY is a dedicated pension scheme for senior citizens aged 60 and above, managed by the Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC). It offers a guaranteed rate of return, making it one of the safest investment options for elderly citizens who want regular income without market risk. The scheme was extended multiple times and is currently available until March 2028.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Minimum age: 60 years (completed) at the time of purchase
  • Must be an Indian citizen
  • No maximum age limit for entry
  • Can purchase a maximum of one policy under this scheme

Investment and Pension Rates

The minimum purchase price is ₹1,50,000 (lump sum) and the maximum is ₹15,00,000. The scheme offers a guaranteed annual return of 8% compounded, payable monthly, quarterly, half-yearly, or annually, based on the pensioner's choice.

Pension Payment ModeGuaranteed ReturnApproximate Monthly Pension (for ₹15 lakh investment)
Monthly8% per annum₹10,000
Quarterly8% per annum₹30,200 per quarter
Half-Yearly8% per annum₹60,800 per half-year
Yearly8% per annum₹1,24,000 per year

Maturity and Surrender

The maturity period is 10 years from the date of purchase. After 10 years, the full purchase price along with the final pension instalment is paid back to the policyholder. Early surrender is allowed after 3 years with a deduction of 1% to 3% of the purchase price, depending on the number of years completed. In case of the pensioner's death during the policy term, the purchase price is returned to the nominee or legal heir.

Loan Facility

Policyholders can avail a loan against their PMVVY policy after 3 years. The maximum loan amount is 75% of the purchase price. The loan is repaid through deductions from the pension amount or a lump sum payment at maturity.

How to Buy PMVVY

  1. Visit any LIC branch office or an authorized bank (SBI, Bank of Baroda, etc.)
  2. Fill out the PMVVY proposal form with your personal and financial details
  3. Submit the required documents along with a cheque or demand draft for the purchase price
  4. Receive your policy document with the pension start date and mode of payment

You can also purchase the policy online through the LIC website or the LIC Customer Portal for a completely digital experience.

Required Documents

  • Aadhaar Card and PAN Card
  • Age proof (Birth certificate, passport, or voter ID)
  • Bank account details (for pension credit)
  • Passport-size photographs (2 copies)
  • Cancelled cheque (for NEFT pension credit)

Atal Pension Yojana (APY)

APY is a government-backed pension scheme aimed at workers in the unorganised sector. Unlike PM-SYM, APY is open to all Indian citizens aged 18 to 40 and provides a guaranteed minimum pension of ₹1,000 to ₹5,000 per month after age 60. The scheme is administered by the Pension Fund Regulatory and Development Authority (PFRDA) under the National Pension System (NPS).

Eligibility Criteria

  • Indian citizen aged between 18 and 40 years
  • Must have a bank account linked to Aadhaar
  • Must have a valid mobile number
  • Not covered under any statutory social security scheme (EPFO, ESI, or government pension)

Pension Options and Contribution

Subscribers can choose from five pension tiers. The monthly contribution depends on the age at entry and the chosen pension amount. The government co-contributes 50% of the subscriber's contribution (up to ₹1,000 per year) for the first five years for non-income-tax payers.

Guaranteed PensionMonthly Contribution at Age 18Monthly Contribution at Age 30Monthly Contribution at Age 40
₹1,000/month₹42₹108₹291
₹2,000/month₹84₹216₹582
₹3,000/month₹126₹324₹873
₹4,000/month₹168₹432₹1,164
₹5,000/month₹210₹540₹1,454

Government Co-Contribution

The Government of India contributes 50% of the subscriber's total contribution or ₹1,000 per annum, whichever is lower. This co-contribution is available for the first five years of the scheme and is applicable only to subscribers who are not income taxpayers and do not belong to any other statutory social security scheme.

Exit and Spouse Pension

If the subscriber passes away before the age of 60, the spouse can either continue the APY account or close it and receive the accumulated pension wealth. After the age of 60, the spouse receives 50% of the subscriber's pension as a family pension.

How to Open an APY Account

  1. Visit your bank branch or post office where you hold a savings account
  2. Fill out the APY registration form (available at the branch or online)
  3. Provide your Aadhaar number, mobile number, and nominee details
  4. Choose your pension tier and set up auto-debit from your bank account
  5. Receive your PRAN (Permanent Retirement Account Number) for tracking

You can also open an APY account online through net banking or the NPS portal. Many banks including SBI, HDFC, ICICI, and Axis Bank support online APY registration.

Required Documents

  • Aadhaar Card (linked to bank account)
  • Savings Bank Account details
  • Mobile number
  • Nominee details (name, date of birth, Aadhaar)
  • Passport-size photograph

Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana (RVY)

Rashtriya Vayoshri Yojana is a national scheme aimed at providing free physical aids and assistive devices to senior citizens from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families. The scheme is implemented by the Central Governments Shri Vayoshri Yojana Foundation and targets elderly citizens who suffer from age-related infirmities such as hearing loss, vision impairment, and mobility issues.

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be a senior citizen aged 60 years or above
  • Must belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) family
  • Must be certified by a registered medical practitioner as needing the particular assistive device
  • Must not have received the same aid under any other government scheme

Aids and Devices Provided

Aid/DeviceDetails
Hearing AidsBilateral digital hearing aids for seniors with hearing impairment
WheelchairsStandard and motorised wheelchairs for mobility-impaired seniors
DenturesComplete dentures for seniors who have lost teeth
Spectacle FramesPrescription spectacle frames with lenses for vision correction
Crutches and Walking SticksStandard and elbow crutches, walking sticks for support
Low Vision AidsMagnifying devices for seniors with low vision

How to Apply

  1. Visit the Camp for Artificial Limbs (CAL) or the nearest CAM (Centre for Artificial Limbs) centre in your district
  2. Get a medical certificate from the registered medical practitioner at the camp
  3. Submit your BPL certificate, Aadhaar card, and medical certificate at the camp
  4. The aids are distributed free of cost at the camp itself or delivered to your address

You can also apply through the National Health Portal or contact your District Social Welfare Office for information about upcoming camps in your area. The camps are organized periodically across all districts.

Required Documents

  • Aadhaar Card
  • BPL Card or BPL Certificate from the tehsildar
  • Medical certificate from a registered medical practitioner
  • Passport-size photograph
  • Bank account details (for DBT, if applicable)

National Programme for Health Care of the Elderly (NPHCE)

NPHCE is a dedicated national programme launched by the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare to address the growing healthcare needs of Indias ageing population. The programme focuses on providing accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to senior citizens, especially those with chronic and age-related conditions. Under this programme, geriatric departments have been established in district hospitals across the country.

Key Components of NPHCE

  • Geriatric Wards in District Hospitals: Dedicated wards with trained staff and equipment for the treatment of age-related ailments including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, arthritis, and neurological disorders
  • Monthly Health Check-Up Camps: Regular health camps at primary health centres and community health centres, providing free consultation, blood pressure monitoring, diabetes screening, and eye check-ups for seniors
  • Home-Based Care for Bedridden Elderly: Trained healthcare workers visit bedridden senior citizens at their homes to provide basic medical care, medication management, and mobility support
  • Geriatric Training Programmes: Training of ANMs, ASHAs, and other frontline health workers in geriatric care, including medication management, fall prevention, and mental health support
  • Mental Health Support: Counselling and psychiatric care for elderly citizens suffering from depression, anxiety, dementia, and other age-related mental health conditions

Services Available Under NPHCE

ServiceLocationCost
Geriatric consultationDistrict HospitalsFree
Monthly health campsPHCs and CHCsFree
Home-based careAt patient's homeFree
Physiotherapy sessionsDistrict HospitalsSubsidized
Mental health counsellingDistrict HospitalsFree
Medication managementPHCsFree

How to Access NPHCE Services

Senior citizens can walk into any district hospital or primary health centre in their area and request geriatric care services. No prior registration is needed for monthly health camps. For home-based care, patients or their families can contact the nearest PHC and request a visit from the healthcare team. The services are available to all senior citizens regardless of income category, though priority is given to BPL families.

How to Track Your Application Status

After submitting your application for any government scheme, it is important to track its progress to ensure timely approval and benefit disbursement. Here is a practical guide to checking your application status across different portals:

NSAP (National Social Assistance Programme)

For IGNOAPS and other NSAP pensions:

  1. Visit the NSAP portal at nsap.nic.in
  2. Click on "Track Application Status" in the navigation menu
  3. Enter your application reference number or Aadhaar number
  4. View your current status: Pending, Approved, Rejected, or Pension Started

Ayushman Bharat (PMJAY)

To check the status of your Ayushman Vay Vandana Card application:

  1. Visit the Ayushman Bharat beneficiary portal at beneficiary.nha.gov.in
  2. Search using your Aadhaar number or ration card number
  3. Check if your name appears in the eligible beneficiaries list
  4. If approved, download your e-card directly from the portal

PM-SYM and APY

For pension scheme tracking:

  • PM-SYM: Visit maandhan.in and log in with your subscriber ID to view contribution history and pension status
  • APY: Log in to the NPS portal at nps.nsdl.com using your PRAN to check contribution details and projected pension

SCSS and PMVVY

For savings and investment schemes:

  • SCSS: Visit your bank or post office branch with your passbook to check interest credits and balance
  • PMVVY: Log in to the LIC Customer Portal at licindia.in or call LIC helpline at 1800-333-0099 to check your pension status

RVY and NPHCE

For assistive device and healthcare schemes:

  • RVY: Contact your District Social Welfare Office or check the NHP portal at nhp.gov.in for upcoming camps and application status
  • NPHCE: Walk into your nearest district hospital or PHC and inquire at the geriatric department. No online tracking is available for NPHCE services

General Tips for Tracking

  • Always keep your application reference number, Aadhaar number, and acknowledgement receipt safe
  • Register your mobile number with the scheme portal for SMS updates
  • Check the status at least once every 15 days after applying
  • If your application is pending for more than 30 days, file a grievance on the CPGRAMS portal at pgportal.gov.in
  • For any issues, call the scheme-specific helpline number listed in the table above
Found an Error? Government policies change frequently. If you find any incorrect or outdated information on this website, please contact us immediately. We commit to reviewing and correcting errors within 48 hours.

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