The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) is a non-contributory pension initiative implemented by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India. It aims to provide social security to widows from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families by offering them financial assistance.
Benefits
- Widows aged 40 to 79 years: A monthly pension of ₹300.
- Widows aged 80 years and above: A monthly pension of ₹500.
Note: Some states may offer additional benefits. For instance, in Madhya Pradesh, beneficiaries receive an extra ₹400 per month from the state government, totaling ₹600 per month.
Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for IGNWPS:
- The applicant must be a widow aged between 40 and 79 years.
- She should belong to a household living below the poverty line (BPL), as defined by the Government of India.
Note: Eligibility criteria may vary slightly by state. For example, in Kerala, there is no age limit, and additional conditions include not owning more than two acres of land and not possessing vehicles with engine capacity over 1000 cc.
Exclusions
Pension benefits will be discontinued if:
- The widow remarries.
- The widow’s household moves above the poverty line.
Application Process
Online Application via UMANG App
- Download the UMANG App or visit the UMANG website.
- Register/Login using your mobile number and OTP.
- Search for “NSAP” (National Social Assistance Programme) within the app.
- Click on “Apply Online”.
- Fill in the required details, choose the mode of pension payment, upload a recent photograph, and submit the application.
Note: The online application process may vary by state. For instance, in Bihar, applications are submitted offline at the Right to Public Service (RTPS) counters.
Offline Application
- Obtain the application form from the local District Social Welfare Office or Tehsil Social Welfare Office.
- Complete the application form with accurate details.
- Attach the necessary documents (as listed below).
- Submit the application to the respective office in person.
Note: The offline application process may vary by state. For example, in Madhya Pradesh, applications can be submitted at the Municipality Office or through the Public Service Guarantee.
Documents Required
- Husband’s Death Certificate: Must include the name of the surviving widow.
- BPL Card: Proof of Below Poverty Line status.
- Age Proof: Birth certificate, school certificate, ration card, or Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC). If unavailable, an age certificate from a government medical officer is acceptable.
- Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or Driving License.
- Bank Account Details: Passbook or a canceled cheque.
- Passport-size Photograph: Recent photograph of the applicant.
Note: Additional documents may be required based on state-specific guidelines. For instance, in Bihar, residence proof and caste certificate (if applicable) are also required.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What are the different modes of receiving the pension? A: The pension amount can be received through:
- Bank Account: Direct transfer.
- Post Office Account: Direct transfer.
- Postal Money Order: Delivered to the beneficiary’s address.
- In-hand Cash: Disbursed by the Pension Disbursement Authority of the respective Sub-District/Municipal Area.
Q2: Who disburses in-hand cash? A: In-hand cash is disbursed by the Pension Disbursement Authority of the respective Sub-District/Municipal Area. Beneficiaries can select their preferred disbursement authority while filling out the application form on the UMANG platform.
Q3: What is the eligibility for receiving a pension under IGNWPS? A: The eligibility criteria are:
- The applicant must be a widow aged between 40 and 79 years.
- She should belong to a household living below the poverty line (BPL), as defined by the Government of India.
Q4: How can I apply for the IGNWPS? A: Applications can be submitted both online (via the UMANG App or website) and offline (through the local District or Tehsil Social Welfare Offices). The process involves filling out the application form, attaching the necessary documents, and submitting it to the appropriate authority.
Q5: What documents are required for the application? A: Required documents include:
- Husband’s Death Certificate.
- BPL Card.
- Age Proof.
- Identity Proof.
- Bank Account Details.
- Passport-size Photograph.
Note: Additional documents may be required based on state-specific guidelines.