The Destitute Widow Pension Scheme is an initiative launched by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. This scheme aims to provide financial security and essential support to destitute widows aged 18 years and above. In addition to a monthly pension, beneficiaries receive one free saree during Pongal and Deepavali, along with free rice from Anganwadi Centres.
Benefits
- Monthly Pension:
₹1,000 per month. - Free Clothing:
One free saree during Pongal and Deepavali. - Free Rice:
- 2 kg per month for those taking nutritious meals.
- 4 kg per month for those not taking nutritious meals.
Eligibility
- The applicant must be a widow.
- The applicant must be destitute.
- The applicant must be 18 years or older.
- The applicant’s fixed assets should not exceed ₹1,00,000.
Application Process
Online – Via Common Service Centers (CSCs)
- Document Collection:
Gather copies of all necessary documents required for the application. - Biometric Verification:
Visit the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) and complete the biometric verification process. - Form Submission:
Fill in all the mandatory fields in the application form and upload copies of the required documents. - Receipt:
Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the concerned authority. Ensure the receipt includes the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
- Applicant’s Passport-size Photograph.
- Aadhaar Card.
- Proof of Age.
- Aadhaar Consent Form.
- Smart Ration Card or any acceptable Address Proof.
- Husband’s Death Certificate.
- Self-declaration by the Applicant.
- Widow Certificate.
- Any Identity Proof (e.g., Voter ID Card, Passport, PAN Card, Driving License).
- Bank Passbook.
Frequently Asked Questions
- My fixed assets, including my house and land, are worth more than ₹1,00,000/-. Can I still apply?
No, the scheme is only for those whose fixed assets do not exceed ₹1,00,000. - I am a young widow below 18 years old. Can I apply for the scheme now and receive the benefits when I turn 18?
No, applicants must be 18 years or older to be eligible. - Can I apply for the Destitute Widow Pension Scheme online myself, or do I need to visit the CSC?
The application must be submitted via the Common Service Centers (CSCs). - I don’t have a computer or internet access. How can I apply for the scheme?
You can visit your nearest CSC where the application process can be completed with assistance. - What happens after I submit my application at the CSC?
Your application will be processed by the concerned authority, and you will receive an acknowledgment with a unique identification number. - What is the amount of the monthly pension under this scheme?
The monthly pension is ₹1,000. - Do I get the free saree and rice every month?
The free saree is provided once during Pongal and Deepavali, and the rice is provided monthly based on your nutritional status. - I am a differently-abled widow and struggle to visit the CSC. Can someone help me with the application process?
Assistance may be available; you can contact the local social welfare office or designated CSC for support. - I recently became a widow, but I haven’t received my widow certificate yet. Can I still apply using other documents?
A valid widow certificate is a mandatory document. You may need to obtain it before applying. - Is there a time limit to apply for this scheme?
Applicants should apply as soon as possible; however, specific deadlines are provided in the official guidelines. - Will the application process cost me anything?
No, there is no application fee. - How long does it take to process the application and receive the benefits?
Processing times may vary; for precise details, please refer to the official guidelines or contact the CSC.