The Differently Abled Pension Scheme is a state initiative launched by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department of Tamil Nadu. The scheme aims to provide financial and material support to differently-abled persons who have a disability of 40% or above. Eligible beneficiaries receive a monthly pension along with additional benefits including free clothing on festive occasions and a monthly supply of rice through Anganwadi Centres.
Benefits
- Monthly Pension:
- ₹1,000 per month.
- Free Clothes on Festive Occasions:
- One free dhoti for male pensioners.
- One free saree for female pensioners.
(Distributed on Pongal and Diwali)
- Free Rice via Anganwadi Centres:
- 2 kg per month for beneficiaries taking a nutritious meal.
- 4 kg per month for those not taking a nutritious meal.
Eligibility
- Age:
- Applicants must be 18 years or above.
- Disability:
- Must have a disability of 40% or above.
- Employment Status:
- The applicant should not be employed in government or government-affiliated organizations.
- For private sector employees and self-employed individuals, the annual income must not exceed ₹3,00,000.
Application Process
Online Application via CSCs
- Document Preparation:
- Gather copies of all necessary documents.
- Biometric Verification:
- Visit the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) and complete the biometric verification process.
- Filling the Application:
- Complete the application form by filling in all mandatory fields.
- Upload copies of the required documents.
- Submission:
- Submit the application and obtain a receipt or acknowledgment. Ensure the receipt includes the submission date, time, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
- Applicant’s Photograph.
- Aadhaar Card.
- Proof of Age.
- Aadhaar Consent Form.
- Smart Ration Card or any other Address Proof.
- Self-declaration of the Applicant.
- Any additional Identity Proof (e.g., Voter ID Card, Passport, PAN Card, or optionally, a Driving License).
- Bank Passbook.
- Differently Abled ID Card.
Frequently Asked Questions
-
Is there a time limit to apply for this scheme?
Please refer to the official guidelines for any specific application deadlines. -
Will the application process cost me anything?
No, the application process is free of cost. -
I live in a remote area with limited internet access. Are there alternative ways to access the application form?
Yes, you can visit the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) where assistance is available. -
Do I need to renew my application every year to continue receiving the benefits?
The scheme continues as long as eligibility conditions are met; check if any renewal is required as per official notifications. -
I am a transgender person. Which free clothing (dhoti/saree) should I choose on the application form?
Applicants should follow the guidelines provided in the scheme for selecting the appropriate clothing item. -
What happens to the free clothes (dhoti/saree) if I cannot attend the distribution event?
Please refer to the scheme guidelines for instructions on collection or alternate arrangements. -
Can I apply for the scheme online without visiting the CSC?
The application must be submitted via a CSC which facilitates biometric verification. -
I am self-employed and earn more than ₹3,00,000 per annum. Am I still eligible?
No, self-employed individuals with an annual income exceeding ₹3,00,000 are not eligible. -
I am a differently-abled person with a 35% disability. Am I eligible for the scheme?
Eligibility requires a disability of 40% or above. -
Is there a specific timeline for collecting the free rice from the Anganwadi Centre?
Collection timelines are typically communicated by the respective Anganwadi Centre; please check locally. -
Can I choose the color or design of the free clothes (dhoti/saree)?
The scheme does not specify customization options; details may be provided at the time of distribution. -
I am interested in volunteering to help with the distribution of free clothes. Who can I contact?
Contact details for volunteering are available on the official website or from the local implementing agency.