The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme is a state initiative by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. It is designed to support destitute widows aged 40 years and above who belong to households below the poverty line (BPL). The scheme provides a monthly pension along with in-kind benefits such as a free saree during Pongal and Deepavali and subsidized free rice at Anganwadi Centres.
Benefits
- Pension:
- ₹1,000 per month.
- Free Clothes (during Pongal and Deepavali):
- 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.
Eligibility Criteria
- The applicant must be a widow.
- The applicant must be destitute.
- The applicant must belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
- The applicant’s age should be 40 years or above.
Application Process
Online Application via Common Service Centers (CSCs):
- Document Preparation:
- Gather all necessary documents required for the application.
- 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:
- Request a receipt or acknowledgment from the concerned authority. The receipt should include essential details like the date, time of submission, and a unique identification number (if applicable).
Documents Required
- Applicant’s Photo.
- Aadhaar Card.
- Proof of Age.
- Aadhaar Consent Form.
- Smart Ration Card or any valid Address Proof.
- Husband Death Certificate.
- Self–Declaration of Applicant.
- Widow Certificate.
- Any Identity Proof (e.g., Voter ID, Passport, PAN Card, or Driving License).
- Bank Passbook.
- BPL Card Number.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
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 the beneficiary’s bank account via the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Q: Can I use the free rice benefit even if I am not taking nutritious meals at the Anganwadi centre?
A: Yes, different quantities of free rice are provided based on whether you are taking nutritious meals or not (2 kg vs. 4 kg per month).
Q: What is the quality of the free saree distributed under the scheme?
A: The scheme provides a standard free saree during the designated festivals; quality details are usually as per government specifications.
Q: Can I sell or exchange the free saree for cash or other goods?
A: No, the saree is provided as a benefit and is not intended for sale or exchange.
Q: What happens if the free saree is damaged or lost after receiving it?
A: The saree benefit is provided once during the festival period. If it is damaged or lost, please consult with your local authority for any remedial measures.
Q: Can I choose a specific collection date for the free rice?
A: Collection dates are typically scheduled by the Anganwadi Centres. You may need to check locally for available options.
Q: Is there a limit on how long I can receive the benefits under this scheme?
A: The benefits are provided as long as you remain eligible under the scheme guidelines.
Q: What happens if I remarry? Will I still be eligible for the benefits?
A: Remarriage may affect eligibility. It’s best to consult with the local Social Welfare office regarding any changes in eligibility due to remarriage.
Q: I am a differently-abled widow. Are there any additional benefits or support available?
A: For differently-abled widows, additional support might be available. It is advisable to contact the Social Welfare Department for specific details.
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 verify with your local Anganwadi Centre.
Q: Can I choose the color or design of the free saree?
A: The saree is provided in a standard design as per the scheme’s guidelines, and customization options are typically not available.
Q: I live in a remote area. Are there mobile camps or alternative ways to apply besides visiting the CSC?
A: In remote areas, alternative arrangements like mobile camps may be organized. Check with your local Social Welfare office or CSC for available options.