The “Pension to Indigent Sportspersons of Odisha” scheme was launched by the Department of Sports & Youth Services, Government of Odisha to provide financial assistance to sportspersons of yesteryears who are living in indigent conditions.
Objectives
- To provide financial support to former sportspersons facing financial difficulties.
- To recognize and assist sportspersons who have represented Odisha in recognized sporting events.
Benefits
- Monthly Pension:
- Eligible sportspersons receive ₹3,000 per month as a pension.
- Pension for Surviving Spouse:
- If a pensioner passes away, the surviving spouse can apply for the pension upon submitting necessary documents, including the death certificate and legal heir certificate.
- Mode of Payment:
- Pension is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account via e-transfer every month.
Eligibility
- The applicant must be a permanent resident of Odisha.
- Age:
- Male candidates must be 50.
- Minimum age for women: 40.
- Age relaxation of up to 10 years for people disabled by disability, physical impairment, or severe illness (Medical Board Certificate required).
- Must have represented Odisha in recognized sporting events (as listed in Annexure-I).
- Annual income from all sources must not exceed ₹50,000 (Income Certificate required).
- Applicants must not have been convicted of any criminal offense.
Cessation of Pension
- Upon Death:
- Pension ceases upon the death of the pensioner. However, the spouse may apply for continuation of the pension.
- Improved Financial Condition:
- If an inquiry reveals that the pensioner is no longer in indigent condition, the pension will be ceased, and the government may recover the amount with 18% interest.
- Fraudulent Claims:
- Pension ceases if found obtained through unfair means, and the government reserves the right to recover the granted amount.
Application Process
Online Application:
- Visit the Odisha Sports Portal.
- Register if not already registered.
- Login to the portal and navigate to the Sports Services section.
- Complete the profile details and update the application status.
- Select the “Apply Pension” option from the dashboard.
- Fill in the required details and save the application.
- Monitor the application status on the dashboard.
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card (Copy).
- Birth Certificate.
- Recent Passport-Sized Photographs.
- Bank Passbook (Photocopy).
- Disability Certificate (if applicable).
- Income Proof (Income Certificate from Revenue Authority).
- Sports Certificates (achievements or participation proof).
- Other Relevant Documents (if required).
Life Certificate
- Annual Submission:
- Pensioners must appear before the District Sports Officer (DSO) each January to furnish a Life Certificate (Annexure-IV).
- Submission Deadline:
- DSOs must forward the certificates to the Sports & Youth Services Department by 10th February each year.
- Non-Submission:
- Failure to submit the Life Certificate on time results in the non-renewal of the pension.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the monthly pension amount?
₹3,000 per month. - How can I apply for the scheme?
Applications can be submitted online through the Odisha Sports Portal. - What happens if I fail to submit the Life Certificate?
Failure to submit the Life Certificate results in the non-renewal of the pension.