Launched by the Social Welfare and Nutritious Meal Programme Department, Government of Tamil Nadu, the Destitute Agricultural Labourers Pension Scheme aims to provide essential financial support and in-kind benefits to destitute agricultural labourers who have reached the age of 60. This scheme is designed to ensure that vulnerable senior citizens in the agricultural sector receive a monthly pension and additional benefits, helping to improve their quality of life and social security.
Benefits
- Monthly Pension: Provides ₹1,000 per month to eligible destitute agricultural labourers.
- In-Kind Benefits:
- Free saree (female) or dhoti (male) during festive occasions such as Pongal and Deepavali.
- Free rice distribution through Anganwadi Centres, with quantities based on participation in the nutritious meal scheme.
Eligibility
To qualify for the scheme, the applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Must be a destitute agricultural labourer.
- Must be 60 years or above.
- Should have no source of income or means of subsistence.
- Must not be a habitual beggar.
- Should not possess property valued at more than ₹5,000.
- Must not be supported by a son or grandson aged 20 years or above.
Application Process (Offline)
- Obtain the Application Form:
- Visit the Special Tahsildar or Village Administrative Officer during office hours and request the hard copy of the prescribed application form.
- Alternatively, the applicant may apply using a white paper.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields on the application form.
- Attach self-attested copies of all required documents.
- Submit the Application:
- Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the necessary documents to the Special Tahsildar or Village Administrative Officer.
- Obtain Acknowledgment:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the officer. Ensure that the receipt includes essential details such as the date and time of submission and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
- Aadhaar Card
- Proof of Age
- Bank Passbook
- Any Other Document: As required by the Special Tahsildar/Village Administrative Officer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the primary objective of this scheme?
A1: The scheme aims to provide a monthly pension and in-kind benefits to destitute agricultural labourers aged 60 and above to ensure their financial security and dignity.
Q2: How much pension is provided under this scheme?
A2: Eligible beneficiaries receive a monthly pension of ₹1,000.
Q3: Who can benefit from this scheme?
A3: Destitute agricultural labourers who are 60 years or above, with no regular income and minimal assets, can benefit from the scheme.
Q4: Are there any additional benefits provided besides the pension?
A4: Yes, beneficiaries also receive one free saree (for females) or one free dhoti (for males) during Pongal and Deepavali, along with free rice distributed via Anganwadi Centres (2kg or 4kg per month, based on participation in the nutritious meal program).
Q5: What is the time limit for processing the applications?
A5: The guidelines do not specify a fixed time limit; however, applicants are encouraged to follow up with the respective office if there are delays.
Q6: Who are the officers to be contacted regarding this scheme?
A6: Applicants should contact the Special Tahsildar or the Village Administrative Officer in their local area for further details.
Q7: Where should grievances be reported?
A7: Any grievances should be reported to the Special Tahsildar or Village Administrative Officer handling the scheme applications.
Q8: What support is available if an application is delayed beyond one month?
A8: Applicants should inquire with the local office for follow-up procedures or escalation measures if processing delays occur.
Q9: How can one apply for this scheme?
A9: Interested applicants must apply offline by obtaining the prescribed application form from the local office, completing it with the required documents, and submitting it to the Special Tahsildar/Village Administrative Officer.
Q10: Is there a provision for reapplying if the application is rejected?
A10: The guidelines do not explicitly mention reapplication provisions; applicants should seek clarification from the local office in case of rejection.