The Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme is a state initiative by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. It aims to provide financial and in-kind support to individuals with disabilities who belong to households below the poverty line (BPL). The scheme offers a monthly pension and additional benefits such as free clothes during festivals and subsidized rice at Anganwadi Centres.
Benefits
- Pension:
- ₹1,000 per month.
- Free Clothes (during Pongal and Deepavali):
- Male Pensioner: One free dhoti.
- Female Pensioner: One free saree.
- Free Rice at Anganwadi Centres:
- If taking nutritious meal: 2 kg per month.
- If not taking nutritious meal: 4 kg per month.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
- Age should be 18 years and above.
- Should have a disability of 80% or above, or suffer from severe/multiple disabilities.
Application Process
Online Application via Common Service Centers (CSCs):
- Document Preparation:
- Gather all necessary documents as specified in the scheme.
- Visit the Nearest CSC:
- Complete the Biometric Verification Process.
- Fill in the Application Form:
- Ensure all mandatory fields are completed and required documents are uploaded.
- Receipt Collection:
- Obtain an acknowledgment receipt from the concerned authority, ensuring it includes the date, time of submission, 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 valid Address Proof.
- Self-declaration by the Applicant.
- Any Identity Proof (Voter ID Card, Passport, PAN Card, or Driving License [optional]).
- Bank Passbook.
- BPL Card Number.
- Differently Abled ID Card.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: I am a person with a disability, but the percentage is 75%. Am I eligible?
A: No, eligibility requires a disability percentage of 80% or above, or the presence of severe/multiple disabilities.
Q: I am a senior citizen with a disability, but my income is slightly above the BPL limit. Can I still apply?
A: The scheme is strictly for households below the poverty line; income criteria must be met.
Q: I have a child with a disability. Can they apply for the scheme?
A: This scheme is for individuals aged 18 years and above.
Q: Can I apply for the scheme online without visiting the CSC?
A: No, the application process requires biometric verification at a CSC.
Q: I live in a rural area with limited internet access. How can I apply?
A: In such cases, visiting the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) is necessary for assistance with the application process.
Q: What happens if I cannot attend the distribution event for the free clothes?
A: Please contact the local authority to discuss alternative arrangements.
Q: Do I need a medical certificate proving my disability during the application process?
A: A Differently Abled ID card and other related documents are required; additional medical certificates may be requested as per guidelines.
Q: Do I need to renew my application every year to continue receiving the benefits?
A: The scheme guidelines will specify the renewal process; please consult the latest Citizen’s Charter or local office.
Q: I am a person with a visual impairment. How can I navigate the application process at the CSC?
A: CSCs are generally equipped to assist differently-abled persons. Request assistance from the CSC staff for navigating the application process.
Q: I am concerned about the privacy of my disability information. How is my data protected?
A: The scheme adheres to standard data privacy protocols; please refer to the Citizen’s Charter for details on data protection.
Q: Can I choose the color or design of the free dhoti or saree?
A: The scheme provides standard items; customization is typically not available.
Q: I am unable to collect the free rice due to my disability. Can someone else collect it on my behalf?
A: Please inquire with your local Anganwadi Centre regarding proxy collection options.