Baotou's Hondlon district has launched an innovative collective subsidy program to strengthen rural pension coverage. Villager Zhao Xiaoping, 56 years old, now receives an additional 100 yuan ($13.79) annual top-up from her village collective to complement her 1,000 yuan personal contribution and 85 yuan government subsidy. "This means higher benefits at retirement," said Zhao. 

As one of three pilot areas, Buerhantu township has enrolled seven residents in the program, which taps collective economic surpluses to create a "third pillar" of pension financing beyond individual and government contributions. "Growing village enterprises now enable us to share wealth," said Party secretary Hu Haidong.

The initiative aims to expand sustainable retirement security for farmers transitioning to urban residency.