The West Bengal Transport Workers’ Social Security Scheme: Funeral Expenses is an initiative by the Labour Department, West Bengal aimed at offering financial support to cover funeral costs in the unfortunate event of a beneficiary’s demise. This scheme is designed to provide a measure of relief during a difficult time and is a part of the state’s broader social security and empowerment efforts for transport workers.
Benefits
- Financial Assistance: Provides a lump sum of ₹3,000/- to help cover funeral expenses.
- Social Support: Offers a critical safety net for transport workers during times of personal loss.
- Empowerment: Aims to enhance the social security and well-being of unorganized workers in the transport sector.
Eligibility
To be eligible for the funeral expenses assistance, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: The applicant must be between 18 and 60 years of age at the time of enrolment.
- Employment Status: The applicant must be an unorganized worker employed in the operation of commercial vehicles such as cars, taxis, luxury taxis, light commercial vehicles, vans, auto-rickshaws, tempos, lorries, trucks, or buses.
- Vehicle Use: The applicant’s vehicle must be used for commercial purposes and not solely for personal or family use.
Application Process
Online Registration and Application
- Visit the eDistrict 2.0 Portal: Navigate to the portal and click on Log In/Sign Up.
- User Registration: Scroll to the bottom of the User Login window and click on “Register”. Fill in all required details carefully and choose a username before clicking “Register”.
- OTP Verification: Enter the One Time Password (OTP) received on your mobile to complete the registration.
- User Login: In the User Login window, enter your username or email along with the captcha and click “Sign In”. Verify your login by entering the OTP and clicking “Submit”.
- Dashboard Access: Upon successful login, you will be redirected to your Dashboard. From the right side menu, select the appropriate option to apply for the concerned scheme.
Documents Required
For New Registration:
- Certification by Prescribed Authority: In the prescribed format.
- Passport Size Photo: For the applicant and each dependent member.
- Age Proof Document.
- Driving Licence: Required for drivers.
- EPIC/AADHAR Card.
For the Application of the Welfare Scheme:
- Death Certificate: Of the beneficiary.
- Additional Documents: Any other documents as required by the scheme guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the “Funeral Expenses” scheme under the West Bengal Transport Workers’ Social Security Scheme?
A1: It is a financial assistance program to cover funeral costs in case of a beneficiary’s demise.
Q2: Who can apply for the funeral expenses assistance?
A2: Unorganized workers employed in operating commercial vehicles in West Bengal are eligible to apply.
Q3: What is the amount provided under this scheme?
A3: The scheme provides a lump sum of ₹3,000/- for funeral expenses.
Q4: Can this assistance be claimed separately from death relief benefits?
A4: The funeral expenses assistance is part of the broader relief measures provided by the scheme; specific guidelines should be consulted to determine if it can be claimed separately.
Q5: How will the amount be disbursed?
A5: The disbursement process is carried out as per the scheme’s official procedures following the successful submission of an application and necessary approvals.
Q6: What happens if an application is rejected?
A6: In case of rejection, the applicant may seek clarification and follow the prescribed process to appeal or reapply as per the guidelines.
Q7: Is the scheme applicable for all types of deaths?
A7: The scheme covers funeral expenses arising from both accidental and natural deaths, subject to the guidelines.
Q8: Is there any age limit for eligibility?
A8: Yes, applicants must be between 18 and 60 years of age at the time of enrolment.