The “Pension Scheme for the Journalists” was launched by the Tamil Development, Religious Endowments, and Information Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. This scheme provides a monthly pension to retired journalists who meet the eligibility criteria, ensuring financial security after retirement.
Benefits
- Monthly Pension:
- Retired journalists receive a pension of ₹4,000 per month.
Eligibility
- Retirement Status:
- The applicant must be a retired journalist.
- Age Requirement:
- The applicant should be 58 years or older.
- Work Experience:
- The applicant must have worked full-time for at least 20 years in roles such as teacher, assistant teacher, reporter, photographer, proofreader, or news correspondent.
- Alternatively, 10 years of journalism experience is sufficient if the applicant is terminally ill or physically disabled.
- Income Criteria:
- The applicant’s annual family income should not exceed ₹20,000.
- Gratuity and pension received from previous companies should not exceed ₹30,000.
- During the years of employment, the applicant’s income must not have exceeded ₹50,000.
Application Process
Offline Process
- Download Application Form:
- The applicant can download the application form from the official website.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields and attach self-attested copies of all required documents.
- Note: Two completed application forms must be sent.
- Submit the Application:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application forms along with the documents to the Tamil Development, Religious Endowments & Information Department.
- Obtain Receipt:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the concerned authority that includes the date, time, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
- Two passport-size photographs (countersigned by a Government Registered Officer).
- Age Certificate (issued by the educational institution).
- Certificates detailing the post and place of service.
- Retirement Certificate.
- Gratuity Certificate (received upon retirement).
- Income Certificate (stating maximum annual income and other earnings during employment).
- Certificates for those receiving a Central-State Government Pension.
- Current Annual Income Certificate (obtained from the Office of the Governor).
- Medical Certificate (from a Government Hospital or Registered Medical Practitioner).
- Photograph of Spouse (for the grant of family pension to the first surviving spouse in case of the pensioner’s death).
- Disability Certificate (if applicable).
Frequently Asked Questions
-
What is the Journalists Pension Scheme?
It is a scheme that provides a monthly pension to retired journalists who meet specific eligibility criteria. -
Which department oversees the Journalists Pension Scheme?
The scheme is overseen by the Tamil Development, Religious Endowments, and Information Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. -
Who funds the Journalists Pension Scheme?
The scheme is funded by the Government of Tamil Nadu. -
Who are the beneficiaries of this scheme?
Retired journalists who have served in various capacities within the field of journalism. -
Is there any specific community or age requirement for this scheme?
Yes, the applicant must be 58 years or older. -
Are there any special conditions for journalists who are terminally ill or physically disabled?
Yes, in such cases, 10 years of journalism experience is considered sufficient. -
How can one apply for the Journalists Pension Scheme?
Applications are submitted offline by downloading the application form from the official website, completing it, and submitting it along with the required documents. -
How long is the scheme valid for?
The scheme remains in force as per the government’s policy; check the official website for any updates. -
How many journalists have benefited from the scheme so far?
Specific beneficiary numbers are available on the official website or through the department’s communications. -
What income criteria must applicants meet to be eligible for the pension?
The applicant’s annual family income should not exceed ₹20,000; additionally, the gratuity and previous pension amounts should not exceed ₹30,000, and the employment income in any year should not exceed ₹50,000.