The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme is a social welfare initiative in India aimed at providing financial assistance to widows in need. Launched by the Government of India, the scheme offers a monthly pension to widowed women in the age group of 40 to 79 years from below poverty line (BPL) families.
The objective is to alleviate the economic challenges faced by widows and empower them with a sustainable source of income. The scheme emphasizes inclusivity and social support, contributing to the overall well-being of vulnerable widows by ensuring they have a basic financial foundation for their livelihood.
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Launched as part of the National Social Assistance Program (NSAP), the scheme offers a monthly pension to eligible widows, helping them sustain a basic standard of living.
Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)
| Section | Content |
|---|---|
| Introduction | Explore IGNWPS, a Ministry of Rural Development initiative, offering social security to widows in need. |
| Benefits | Monthly pension of Rs. 300 for widows aged 40-79; Rs. 500 for those 80 and above. |
| Eligibility | Age: 40-79 years; Economic Status: Household below the poverty line. |
| Exclusions | Pension ceases upon remarriage or the household moving above the poverty line. |
| Applying for IGNWPS | Online: UMANG App or website; Offline: Visit local authorities. |
| Online Application | 1. Download UMANG App or visit website. |
| 2. Login using mobile number and OTP. | |
| 3. Search for NSAP. | |
| 4. Click on “Apply Online” and fill basic details. | |
| 5. Choose payment mode, upload photo, and click “Submit.” | |
| Offline Application | Visit local authorities, submit required documents manually. |
| Documents Required | 1. Death Certificate of Husband with widow’s name. |
| 2. BPL Card. | |
| 3. Age Proof: Birth certificate, school certificate, ration card, EPIC, or a government hospital certificate. | |
| Impact and Stories | Success stories like [Name] showcasing the profound impact on individuals and communities. |
| Conclusion | IGNWPS symbolizes collective efforts to uplift vulnerable sections, fostering financial independence and societal development. |
Understanding the Benefits
The IGNWPS extends a helping hand to widows by providing a monthly pension of Rs. 300 for those between 40 and 79 years of age. For widows aged 80 and above, the pension amount is increased to Rs. 500 per month. This financial assistance serves as a crucial support system, empowering widows to meet their basic needs and maintain a dignified standard of living.
Eligibility Criteria:
To avail the benefits of IGNWPS, specific eligibility criteria must be met:
- Age Requirement: The applicant must be a widow falling within the age bracket of 40-79 years.
- Economic Status: The applicant’s household should be categorized as living below the poverty line, as per the criteria set by the Government of India.
Exclusions: When Support Ceases
While IGNWPS strives to offer sustained assistance, certain circumstances lead to discontinuation of the pension:
- Remarriage: In the event of remarriage, the widow ceases to be eligible for the pension.
- Escape from Poverty: Once the widow’s household moves above the poverty line, the pension is discontinued.
Applying for IGNWPS:
The application process for IGNWPS is designed to be accessible, with options for both online and offline submissions. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Online Application
- Download UMANG App or Visit the Website: Access the application through the UMANG App or by visiting https://web.umang.gov.in/web_new/home.
- Login: Use your mobile number and OTP to log in.
- Search for NSAP: Once logged in, locate the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP).
- Apply Online: Click on “Apply Online” and fill in the basic details.
- Payment Method: Choose the preferred mode of pension payment.
- Document Upload: Upload necessary documents, including a photo.
- Submission: Click on “Submit” to complete the application.
Offline Application
For those who prefer traditional methods, the offline application process involves visiting the local authorities and submitting the required documents manually.
Offline Application Process:
- Submission: Complete applications submitted to Gram Panchayat/Block Office in rural areas and Municipality/Municipal Council in urban areas.
- Verification: Officer or team verifies applications against eligibility criteria.
- Recommendation: Verification Officer recommends approval or rejection with reasons.
- Discussion: List discussed in Gram Sabha/Ward Sabha/Area Sabha and later in Gram Panchayats/Municipalities.
- Time Limits: If not adhered to, Verification Officer directly submits recommendations to Sanctioning Authority.
- Approval: Sanctioning Authority conveys approval via Sanction Order to the applicant and informs Gram Panchayat/Municipality.
- Documentation: Sanction Order issued under seal, and beneficiaries receive a Pension Passbook.
- Display: List of beneficiaries updated every three months at respective offices.
- Disbursement: Pension amount directly transferred to beneficiaries through DBT to post office or bank account.
Essential Documentation:
To ensure a smooth application process, specific documents are required:
- Death Certificate of Husband: Including the name of the surviving wife (widow).
- BPL Card: Providing evidence of the economic status of the household.
- Age Proof: Acceptable documents include birth certificates, school certificates, ration cards, EPIC, or a certificate from a government hospital if no valid document is available.
By streamlining the documentation process, IGNWPS aims to make financial support more accessible to those who need it most.
By fostering financial independence, IGNWPS contributes not only to individual well-being but also to the socio-economic development of the nation. As we continue to advocate for inclusivity and social justice, let us recognize the significance of initiatives like IGNWPS in creating a more equitable and compassionate society.
