This scheme by the Tamil Development, Religious Endowments, and Information Department offers financial help to families of Read More... journalists who passed away while actively working, provided they had at least 20 years of service. Read less
Details
In a thoughtful initiative, the Tamil Nadu government, through the Tamil Development, Religious Endowments, and Information Department, has established the Journalists’ Family Benefit Fund. This scheme is designed to offer a helping hand to the families of dedicated journalists who have passed away while in service.
The Journalists’ Family Benefit Fund provides a one-time financial grant to the dependents of journalists. This support is drawn from the Hon’ble Chief Minister’s Public Relief Fund, ensuring timely assistance during difficult times for the families of those who served the profession diligently.
This scheme is specifically for the families of full-time journalists. This includes editors, sub-editors, reporters, photographers, and proofreaders who were employed by newspapers or daily periodicals published in Tamil Nadu.
Journalism is a demanding profession. This fund acknowledges the contributions of journalists and aims to provide a measure of financial security to their families after their untimely demise while on duty. The support varies based on the years of service, recognizing the dedication and long-term commitment of the journalist.
Objective
Benefits
₹2,500/- per month for 15 years, after either of the two parents completes 45 years of age.
NOTE 1:The benefit will be paid to the mother. In case the mother is deceased, the benefit will be paid to the father.
NOTE 2:After 60 years the scheme will be converted to "Old Age Samman Allowance" scheme.
Sources and references
Applications are to be submitted to the Director, News Public Relations Department, Headquarters, Chennai-600 009.
What exactly is the Journalists’ Family Benefit Fund all about?
It’s a financial aid scheme that provides support to the families of journalists who unfortunately pass away while they are still employed in their profession.
Can families of part-time journalists apply for this fund?
No, this fund is exclusively for families of full-time journalists working in Tamil Nadu.
What proof of employment is needed?
You’ll need certificates from the employer stating the journalist’s post and the place where they worked.
Is there any condition regarding the death certificate's origin?
Yes, the Death Certificate must be officially issued by the concerned Municipality or Corporation.
Who can officially recommend an application for this benefit?
Your application needs to be recommended by a recognized Journalist Association in Tamil Nadu.
What are the financial aid amounts linked to years of service?
For 5 years of service, it’s ₹50,000. For 10 years, it’s ₹1,00,000. For 15 years, it’s ₹1,50,000. And for 20 years or more, it’s ₹2,00,000.
Who qualifies to receive benefits under this scheme?
Families of journalists who worked full-time in Tamil Nadu – as editors, sub-editors, journalists, photographers, or proofreaders in newspapers or periodicals published here – and passed away while on duty are eligible.
What are the minimum service years required for a journalist to be eligible for this fund?
A minimum of five years of service is required. However, if the death was due to an accident or illness, this five-year rule applies. Higher benefits are provided for longer service periods.
What documents are necessary when applying for the fund?
You’ll need: Two passport photos of the applicant, the deceased journalist’s photo, their Death Certificate (from Municipality/Corporation), Heirship Certificate (from DM), employment proof, Domicile Certificate (from DM), Nomination Certificate from a Journalist Association, and a Police or Medical Certificate if the death was accidental or due to illness.
How should I submit my application?
You should send your completed application to the Director, News Public Relations Department, Headquarters, Chennai-600 009.
Does the scheme generate its own interest income?
Yes, the government initially invested ₹1 Crore with Tamil Nadu Power Finance and Infrastructure Development Corporation. The interest earned from this deposit is used to fund the scheme.
Can a family apply if the journalist retired and then passed away?
No, this fund is strictly for journalists who die while actively engaged in their journalism work. It does not cover deaths that occur after retirement.