The Antyeshti Anudan Yojana is an initiative launched by the Social Justice and Empowerment Department of the Government of Rajasthan. This scheme aims to provide financial assistance for the dignified last rites of unclaimed and destitute deceased individuals. It supports voluntary organizations and NGOs that undertake the responsibility of performing cremations for individuals who have no family or relatives to carry out the last rites.
Benefits
- One-Time Grant: A financial assistance of ₹5,000 is provided to the voluntary organization for arranging the necessary materials and services for the cremation.
- Dignified Last Rites: Ensures that unclaimed or destitute deceased individuals receive proper and respectful last rites.
- Support for NGOs: Provides critical support to organizations actively involved in the welfare of destitute and helpless individuals.
Eligibility
For an organization to qualify for the scheme, it must meet the following criteria:
- Organizational Requirements:
- Must be a voluntary organization recognized by the state government.
- Should be registered under the Societies Act.
- Must have prior experience or be actively working in the welfare of destitute and helpless individuals.
- Should have a strong financial condition and no history of penalties or blacklisting.
- Deceased’s Criteria:
- The deceased must be identified as unclaimed or destitute, with no known family or relatives to perform the last rites.
- The death must have occurred within the jurisdiction of Rajasthan.
- Commitment to Procedure:
- The organization must agree to conduct the last rites immediately and in full compliance with legal procedures.
- The organization will receive reimbursement of the fixed amount under the scheme from the State Government.
Application Process
Offline Process
- Download Application Form:
- Obtain the application form (Appendix-A) from the official website.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields and attach copies of all required documents (self-attested if required).
- Submit the Application:
- Submit the duly filled and signed form along with the documents to the Social Justice and Empowerment Department or the designated local office.
- Obtain Acknowledgment:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment containing the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Reporting and Verification
- Report the Death:
- Upon discovering an unclaimed or destitute deceased individual, the organization must immediately report the death to local authorities or the police station.
- Verification:
- The local police or another competent authority will verify the status of the deceased as unclaimed or destitute.
Documents Required
- Photo of the Deceased
- Death Certificate of the Deceased
- Unclaimed Body Report: Issued by the local police or competent authority from the concerned police station.
- Destitute Certificate: Issued by the Village Secretary/Sarpanch/Councilor/Officer of the Municipality, Municipal Council, or Municipal Corporation.
- Organization’s Registration Certificate: Recognized by the state government.
- Affidavit: From an office bearer of the organization, along with a certificate stating that the deceased is unclaimed or destitute.
- Any Other Documents: As required by the scheme guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Who can apply for this scheme?
A1: The scheme is available to voluntary organizations or NGOs recognized by the state government and registered under the Societies Act, which are involved in the welfare of destitute and unclaimed deceased individuals.
Q2: What financial assistance is provided?
A2: A one-time grant of ₹5,000 is provided to cover the expenses related to the last rites (cremation).
Q3: Can family members apply?
A3: No, the scheme is specifically designed for voluntary organizations, not for individual family members.
Q4: What documents are required?
A4: Required documents include a photo and death certificate of the deceased, an unclaimed body report, a destitute certificate, the organization’s registration certificate, an affidavit by the organization’s office bearer, and any additional documents as specified.
Q5: Where should the application be submitted?
A5: Applications should be submitted to the Social Justice and Empowerment Department or the designated local office responsible for the scheme.
Q6: Is there a time limit to apply?
A6: The application should be submitted as soon as possible after the death has been reported, in accordance with the guidelines provided.
Q7: Can multiple applications be made for the same deceased?
A7: No, the grant is provided only once per deceased individual.
Q8: Are there income criteria for the applicant organization?
A8: While the organization should have a strong financial condition, there is no specific income criterion; however, it must not have been penalized or blacklisted in the past.
Q9: Does the scheme cover natural and accidental deaths?
A9: Yes, the scheme covers deaths that occur naturally or due to an accident, provided the deceased is unclaimed or destitute.
Q10: Can charitable organizations apply?
A10: Yes, any charitable or voluntary organization that meets the eligibility criteria can apply.