The ‘Pension to Unmarried Poor, Incapacitated Women of Age 50 years and above’ scheme is a state initiative launched by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu. The scheme aims to provide financial support to eligible women by offering a monthly pension of ₹1,000/-, along with additional benefits such as a free saree during Pongal and Deepavali and free rice from Anganwadi Centres.
Benefits
-
Pension:
₹1,000/- per month is provided as a pension. -
Free Clothes During Festivals:
One free saree is provided during Pongal and Deepavali. -
Free Rice in Anganwadi Centres:
- 2 kg per month for beneficiaries taking nutritious meals.
- 4 kg per month for those not taking nutritious meals.
Eligibility
- The applicant must be a woman.
- The applicant should be destitute.
- The applicant must be unmarried.
- The applicant should be 50 years of age or above.
- The applicant’s fixed assets should not exceed ₹1,00,000/-.
Application Process
Online Application via Common Service Centers (CSCs):
- Document Preparation:
Gather all necessary documents required for the application. - Biometric Verification:
Visit the nearest CSC and complete the biometric verification process. - Form Submission:
Fill in all the mandatory fields in the application form, upload copies of all required documents, and submit the application. - Receipt of Acknowledgement:
Obtain a receipt or acknowledgement from the concerned authority which includes the date, time, 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 of the applicant.
- Any additional identity proof (such as Voter ID Card, Passport, PAN Card, or Driving License).
- Bank passbook.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: I am physically unable to collect the free rice from the Anganwadi centre. Can someone else collect it on my behalf?
A1: Generally, the scheme is designed for the beneficiary to collect the benefits. However, in cases of physical inability, you should contact your local CSC or the designated authority to inquire if an alternate arrangement or proxy collection can be made.
Q2: Can I choose the color or design of the free saree?
A2: The saree provided under the scheme is usually standardized in design as per the government’s procurement guidelines. Specific choices regarding color or design are typically not available.
Q3: Will the application process cost me anything?
A3: No, there is no fee for applying to this scheme. The entire process is free of charge.
Q4: Is there a specific deadline to apply for the scheme?
A4: There is no fixed deadline mentioned for this scheme. It is advisable to apply as soon as you meet the eligibility criteria. For any updates, please consult your local authority.
Q5: I am 50 years old and recently separated from my husband. Can I apply right away?
A5: The scheme is intended for unmarried women. If you are recently separated, you may need to check with the local authority to confirm your eligibility status under the scheme’s guidelines.
Q6: I live in a remote area. Are there alternative ways to apply besides visiting the CSC?
A6: While the primary application process is through CSCs, you should contact the local Social Welfare office to see if there are alternative methods available for remote applicants.
Q7: Do I need to renew my application every year to continue receiving the benefits?
A7: Typically, once the application is approved, the pension benefits are disbursed monthly without requiring annual reapplication. However, any change in eligibility may require re-verification, so check with your local authority.
Q8: I don’t have access to a computer or the internet at home. How can I apply?
A8: You can visit your nearest CSC where assistance is provided for online applications and biometric verification, ensuring that you can complete the process even without personal internet access.
Q9: Can I apply for the scheme online without visiting the CSC?
A9: The application process requires biometric verification at a CSC, so you will need to visit a CSC as part of the process.
Q10: I am a 48-year-old widowed woman. Can I apply for the scheme now?
A10: No, the scheme is applicable only to women who are 50 years of age and above. You will need to wait until you meet the age requirement.
Q11: I am a victim of domestic violence and separated from my husband. Am I eligible to apply?
A11: The scheme is specifically for unmarried women. In cases of separation due to domestic violence, you should contact the local Social Welfare office for guidance on how your case may be considered under the scheme’s eligibility criteria.
Q12: Is the pension amount credited directly to my bank account, or can I receive it another way?
A12: The pension amount is typically credited directly to your bank account. For further details or alternative arrangements, please consult your local authority.