Wondering what is widow pension scheme? The Vidhwa Pension Scheme or widow pension scheme is an initiative to offer financial support to widows in households that are below the poverty line. They can earn an income after the demise of their husbands while maintaining a basic standard of living and avoiding dependency on their families. Yet, after the demise of the widow in question, no children or other family members will get these benefits.
Eligibility Criteria for the Scheme
Now that you know what widow pension scheme, here’s looking at the eligibility guidelines for the same.
- The scheme beneficiary should be a widow woman/girl and should not be remarried
- She should be an Indian citizen aged 60 years and above, while not being dependent on any relatives
- The beneficiary family’s income should not exceed Rs. 1,000 every month
- Professional mendicants and beggars are not eligible for this scheme
- The widow should be residing in the particular state for a minimum period of ten years on the date of submitting the application
How to Apply for the Widow Pension Scheme
This varies across states and is done either online or offline. The online process entails the following steps:
- Go to the official site of the social welfare department of your state or the e-governance portal
- Create your account and then sign in with your credentials
- Browse the list of schemes and choose Vidhwa Pension
- Fill up the application form with details like your income source, marital status, bank account information, and other personal details
- Upload documents and check the filled-up for again before submitting it
- You will get your application reference number upon submission for future reference
This is how you can do it offline:
- Go to the sub divisional office or the block development office
- Ask for the Vidhwa Pension application form and fill it up with all details
- Attach all documents and review them carefully prior to submission
- Upon verification, the Government will approve the application and you will receive the pension amount in your bank account
Why the Vidhwa Pension Scheme Is Beneficial
The widow pension scheme will help with the following benefits:
- Widows get a fixed monthly income credited to their bank accounts in a timely manner. The account should be linked to an Aadhar card.
- The funds can be useful for those living below the poverty line and they can live a life of dignity without depending on their family members.
- Elderly widows can use this as a retirement plan or for making investments for the future.
- The amounts usually vary between Rs. 300-2,500 across states, and works as a reliable income source for those who are only dependent on their savings after the demise of their husbands.
- There are several additional benefits including medical and job assistance support and promotion of wellbeing for widows.
What Documents Do You Need?
The documents required include copies of ration and Voter ID cards, along with income certificates, Aadhar cards, death certificate of husband, bank pass book, and a passport size photograph. A copy of disability certificate is required if applicable while a nomination form is also necessary (in a death scenario).
Concluding Notes
Knowing what is widow pension scheme is vital if you wish to achieve financial independence without depending on your family after the unfortunate demise of your husband. Check the scheme details and apply at the earliest.
Santosh Kumar is a Professional SEO and Blogger, With the help of this blog he is trying to share top 10 lists, facts, entertainment news from India and all around the world.
