The Odisha Working Journalist Welfare Scheme was launched by the Information & Public Relations (I&PR) Department, Government of Odisha. The scheme provides financial assistance to the legal heir of a working journalist in case of death and to the journalist in case of permanent incapacitation.
- In case of death, a fixed amount is provided to the widow or, if unmarried, to the minor children or parents.
- In case of permanent incapacitation, the affected journalist receives financial assistance.
- The application process is completely online and can be accessed through the official portal.
Benefits
- ₹4,00,000 is provided to the legal heir of a working journalist in case of death.
- ₹2,00,000 is provided in case of permanent incapacitation.
Eligibility Criteria
- The journalist must be working in Odisha.
- The journalist must be employed by a media house registered with the I&PR department, Odisha.
- The legal heir of the journalist can apply in case of death or permanent incapacitation.
Note:
- “Permanent Incapacitation” refers to accident, disease, or any condition that renders the journalist completely unfit for work.
Application Process
Online Application Steps
- Visit the Official Portal:
- Click on ‘Apply for Financial Assistance’ at the bottom of the page.
- Fill Out the Application Form:
- Enter all mandatory details in the “Application for Financial Assistance” form.
- Receive Application Number:
- Upon submission, an application number is generated for tracking.
- Receive SMS Confirmation:
- A confirmation SMS is sent to the registered mobile number.
- Login to Track Status:
- Enter your registered mobile number to log in.
- An OTP will be sent for verification.
- Check Application Status:
- After OTP verification, the status of the application can be tracked.
Documents Required
Applicants must submit the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- Recent Photograph
- Income Certificate
- Accreditation Card (for accredited journalists)
- Death Certificate (if applicable)
- Legal Heir Certificate (if applicable)
- Media Card Copy
- Bank Passbook Front Page
- Any other required documents
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the Odisha Working Journalist Welfare Scheme?
It is a financial assistance program by the Odisha Government that provides ex-gratia support to journalists and their families in case of death or permanent incapacitation.
Q: Who is eligible for the benefits under this scheme?
A working journalist in Odisha or their legal heir can apply. The journalist must be employed by a media house registered with the I&PR department.
Q: What is the ex-gratia amount provided in case of a journalist’s death?
The legal heir receives ₹4,00,000 as financial assistance.
Q: How much financial assistance is provided in case of permanent incapacitation?
A journalist who is permanently incapacitated receives ₹2,00,000.
Q: Who can apply for the benefits in case of the journalist’s death or permanent incapacitation?
- Widow of the journalist (if married).
- Minor children (if no surviving spouse).
- Parents of the journalist (if unmarried or no surviving spouse/children).
Q: How is “Permanent Incapacitation” defined under the scheme?
It refers to a medical condition (due to accident, disease, or other causes) that makes the journalist completely unfit to work.
Q: Where can I get more information about the Odisha Working Journalist Welfare Scheme?
Visit the official website: https://owjws.odisha.gov.in/
Q: How do I apply under this scheme?
The application process is completely online through the official web portal.