The Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme is an initiative by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. It is designed to support destitute senior citizens aged 60 years and above who belong to households below the poverty line (BPL). In addition to providing a monthly pension, the scheme also offers in-kind benefits such as free clothes during Pongal and Deepavali and subsidized rice through Anganwadi Centres.
Benefits
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- 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:
- 2 kg per month for those taking nutritious meals.
- 4 kg per month for those not taking nutritious meals.
- Pension:
Eligibility Criteria
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- The applicant must be destitute.
- The applicant’s age must be 60 years and above.
- The applicant must belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
Application Process
Online Application via Common Service Centers (CSCs):
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- Document Preparation:
- Gather all necessary documents required for the application.
- Visit the Nearest CSC:
- Complete the Biometric Verification Process at your local CSC.
- Fill in the Application Form:
- Enter all mandatory fields and upload copies of all required documents.
- Receipt Collection:
- Request an acknowledgment or receipt from the concerned authority, ensuring it includes details like the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
- Document Preparation:
Documents Required
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- Applicant Photo
- Aadhaar Card
- Proof of Age
- Aadhaar Consent Form
- Smart Ration Card or any valid Address Proof
- Self–Declaration by the Applicant
- Any Identity Proof (e.g., Voter ID Card, Passport, PAN Card, or Driving License)
- Bank Passbook
- BPL Card Number
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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 don’t have access to a computer or the internet at home. How can I apply?
A: You can visit the nearest Common Service Center (CSC) for assistance with the online application process.
Q: What happens if I cannot attend the distribution event for the free clothes?
A: If you are unable to attend the distribution event, please contact your local authority for alternative arrangements.
Q: Do I need to show proof of being destitute during the application process?
A: Yes, you must provide valid documentation to verify your BPL status.
Q: Do I need to renew my application every year to continue receiving the benefits?
A: Renewal requirements will be outlined in the scheme guidelines. Please consult the latest Citizen’s Charter or your local Social Welfare office for details.
Q: I live in a remote area. Are there mobile camps or alternative ways to apply besides visiting the CSC?
A: Mobile camps or alternative arrangements may be organized in remote areas. Check with your local Social Welfare office or CSC for available options.
Q: I recently turned 60 and am unsure about the application process. Can someone help me?
A: Yes, assistance is available at your nearest CSC or through local government offices.
Q: Can I choose the color or design of the free dhoti or saree?
A: The clothes are provided in a standard design as per the scheme guidelines, and customization is typically not available.
Q: I am physically unable to collect the free rice from the Anganwadi centre. Can someone else collect it on my behalf?
A: Yes, arrangements can usually be made for proxy collection. Please check with your local Anganwadi Centre.
Q: Is the pension amount credited directly to my bank account, or can I receive it another way?
A: The pension is typically credited directly to your bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Q: Can I choose a specific collection date for the free rice?
A: Collection dates are generally scheduled by the Anganwadi Centres; you may need to inquire locally for available options.
Q: Is there a limit on how long I can receive the benefits under this scheme?
A: Benefits are provided as long as you remain eligible under the scheme guidelines.