Launched by the Department of Industries and Commerce, Union Territory of Puducherry, the Monthly Grant To Old Crafts Persons (Pension) scheme is a component of the broader “Development of Handicrafts” initiative. This scheme recognizes the invaluable contribution of traditional artisans by providing them with a steady monthly pension, ensuring they receive financial security in their later years.
Benefits
- Monthly Pension:
- ₹2,000 per month for eligible artisans.
- Survivor Benefit:
- ₹1,000 per month is provided to the living spouse in case of the artisan’s demise.
- Lifetime Support:
- The pension continues for the lifetime of the beneficiary, ensuring ongoing financial security.
Eligibility
To qualify for the scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Age Requirement: The applicant must be an artisan who has attained the age of 60 years.
- Residency: Must be a native or resident of the Union Territory of Puducherry for at least 5 years.
- Craft Practice: The artisan should have practiced the craft for a minimum of 5 years within Puducherry.
- Income Limit: The total family income from all sources should not exceed ₹40,000 per annum.
- Exclusivity: The applicant should not be receiving similar financial assistance from any other source.
Application Process
Offline Application Process
- Print the Application Form:
- Obtain the prescribed application form by taking a print copy.
- Complete the Form:
- Fill in all mandatory fields.
- Paste a recent passport-sized photograph (signed across if required).
- Attach copies of all mandatory documents (self-attested if required).
- Submit the Form:
- Visit the General Manager of the District Industries Centre at:
Thattanchavady, Puducherry – 605009
Contact Numbers: 2248391, 2249392, 2248987
Email: [email protected] - Submit the duly filled and signed application form along with the required documents.
- Visit the General Manager of the District Industries Centre at:
- Acknowledgment:
- Upon receipt, the application is registered and a unique identification number is assigned for future reference.
Documents Required
- Proof of Age
- Residence Certificate of the Union Territory of Puducherry
- Evidence of Practicing the Craft for at least 5 years in Puducherry
- Income Certificate
- Declaration Stating Non-receipt of similar financial assistance from any other source
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: What is the primary objective of the “Monthly Grant To Old Crafts Persons (Pension)” scheme?
A1: The scheme aims to provide financial security to veteran artisans by awarding them a monthly pension in recognition of their contribution to traditional crafts.
Q2: What benefits are provided under this scheme in case of the craftsperson’s demise?
A2: In the event of the artisan’s demise, the living spouse is entitled to receive a monthly grant of ₹1,000.
Q3: Can a craftsperson’s spouse continue to receive benefits after the beneficiary’s demise?
A3: Yes, the scheme provides a reduced pension of ₹1,000 per month to the living spouse.
Q4: What are the eligibility criteria for an artisan to qualify for this pension scheme?
A4: The artisan must be 60 years or older, a resident of Puducherry for at least 5 years, have practiced the craft in Puducherry for a minimum of 5 years, and have a family income not exceeding ₹40,000 per annum.
Q5: What is the family income limit for eligibility under this scheme?
A5: The total family income should not exceed ₹40,000 per annum.
Q6: Can an artisan apply for the pension if they have not been a resident of Puducherry for the required duration?
A6: No, the applicant must be a resident or native of Puducherry for at least 5 years.
Q7: Is there a specific format for the income certificate required for this scheme?
A7: The income certificate must be issued by the competent authority as per the prescribed guidelines.
Q8: Can a craftsperson receive financial assistance from multiple sources simultaneously?
A8: No, applicants should not be receiving similar financial assistance from any other source.
Q9: How long does the financial assistance continue for the beneficiary under this scheme?
A9: The monthly grant continues for the lifetime of the beneficiary, subject to annual renewal.
Q10: Is there a dedicated mechanism for addressing grievances related to this scheme?
A10: Yes, grievance redressal mechanisms are in place. Applicants can contact the District Industries Centre or refer to the Grievance Redressal portal for assistance.
Q11: What is the renewal process for the pension scheme benefits?
A11: The pension is renewed annually; beneficiaries must comply with any update or verification requirements as specified by the scheme guidelines.
Q12: Can an artisan apply for the scheme if they have been practicing the craft outside Puducherry?
A12: To be eligible, the artisan must have practiced the craft for at least 5 years within the Union Territory of Puducherry.