Details

The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) is a government initiative designed to provide a safety net for widows who belong to economically weaker sections of society.

What Is This Scheme?

This is a pension scheme that doesn't require any contribution from the beneficiary. It's managed by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India, and aims to offer financial stability and social security to widows across the nation, especially those living below the poverty line.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

The scheme specifically targets widows who are aged between 40 and 79 years and are living in households identified as being below the poverty line (BPL) as per the government's standards.

Why This Scheme Is Important

Financial independence is crucial for all citizens. This scheme plays a vital role in empowering widows by providing them with a regular income. This helps them meet their basic needs, manage household expenses, and live with dignity, contributing to their overall well-being and social inclusion.

Objective

This scheme offers a monthly pension to widows from poor families to ensure their social security.

Benefits

A pension of ₹ 300/- per month is provided to Widows between 40 years and 79 years. For persons who are 80 years and above, the pension is ₹ 500/- per month.

Sources and references

Guidelines

Eligibility Criteria

You must be a widow and fall within the age bracket of 40 to 79 years.
Your household must be identified as living below the poverty line, following the criteria set by the Government of India.

How To Apply

Applications for the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme can be submitted through the designated online portal. The specific platform and detailed instructions can usually be found on the Ministry of Rural Development's website or through citizen-centric portals like UMANG.

You can select your preferred pension disbursement authority, such as a Bank Account, Post Office Account, or Post Office Money Order, when filling out the application form.

Documents Required

Your husband's Death Certificate, clearly mentioning your name as the surviving wife.
Your BPL Card, proving your household's below-poverty-line status.
Proof of Age: This can be a Birth Certificate or School Certificate. If these are not available, a Ration Card or EPIC (Voter ID) might be accepted. If no valid document exists, a Medical Officer from a government hospital can issue an age certificate.

FAQ’s

How will I receive my pension money?

You have several convenient options to receive your pension. You can get it directly credited to your Bank Account or Post Office Account. Alternatively, it can be disbursed via Postal Money Order, or you can choose to receive it in hand cash.

What age do I need to be to get the pension?

To be eligible for this pension, you must be a widow between 40 and 79 years old. If you are 80 years or older, you still qualify, and the pension amount increases for this age group.

Can I receive pension in cash? If so, who gives it to me?

Yes, you can opt to receive your pension in cash. The cash will be disbursed by the Pension Disbursement Authority responsible for your specific Sub-District or Municipal Area. You can typically choose this option when you fill out the online application form.

What makes me eligible for this widow pension scheme?

To be eligible for the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS), you need to meet two main conditions: Firstly, you must be a widow aged between 40 and 79 years. Secondly, your household must be recognized as living below the poverty line according to the government's defined criteria.

Do I need to prove I'm from a poor family?

Yes, a crucial requirement for this scheme is that your household must be living below the poverty line. You will need to provide your BPL Card as proof to confirm your eligibility.

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme 2026