The State Council will increase the pensions of enterprises' retirees by 10 percent.

The decision was made at the cabinet's executive meeting on January 8. The move will benefit more than 74 million retirees.

The State Council urged government departments to reform their endowment insurance and pension systems.

The meeting also pledged to improve the social assistance system, which helps disadvantaged groups.

The social assistance system, when revamped, will offer financial aid that will improve standards of living for disadvantaged group.

The Central Government has allocated more than 98 billion yuan ($16 billion) to help disadvantaged groups, and has asked that local authorities make sure the money will be given to the needy in a timely manner. It also encouraged nonprofit organizations to take part in the relief effort.