Maternity Benefit (MBOCWWB) 2026

The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme, run by Tamil Nadu's Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Read More... provides ₹1,000 monthly pension to destitute widows aged 40 and above from below poverty line families. Read less

Details

Many women in Tamil Nadu face significant challenges after losing their husbands, especially if they are from economically weaker sections. The state government, through the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, has introduced the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme to offer crucial support to these women.

What Is This Scheme?

This scheme is designed to provide financial assistance and other essential support to destitute widows in Tamil Nadu. It aims to ensure they have a basic income and access to necessities to lead a more stable life.

Who Can Benefit From This Scheme?

The scheme is specifically for women who are widows, considered destitute, are 40 years of age or older, and belong to families living below the poverty line.

Why This Scheme Is Important

For many widows, especially those who are older and from low-income families, finding employment and financial security can be extremely difficult. This scheme acts as a vital safety net, offering a regular pension and essential items like sarees and rice. It helps them manage daily expenses and feel more secure.

Objective

The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme, run by Tamil Nadu's Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, provides ₹1,000 monthly pension to destitute widows aged 40 and above from below poverty line families.

Benefits

The registered women construction workers shall receive financial assistance of ₹1,000/- as maternity benefits during their maternity period.

Sources and references

Official Website

Eligibility Criteria

You must be a widow.
You must be considered destitute.
Your family must be below the poverty line (BPL).
You must be 40 years of age or older.

How To Apply

Visit your nearest Common Service Centre (CSC) or the designated Social Welfare Department office.
Fill out the application form completely and submit it along with the required documents.
You can also inquire about online application procedures or any alternative application centers if available.
For specific details or to find the nearest center, you can contact the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Government of Tamil Nadu.

Documents Required

Applicant's Photo
Aadhaar Card
Proof of Age
Aadhaar Consent Form
Smart Ration Card or Any Address Proof
Husband's Death Certificate
Self-declaration by the Applicant
Widow Certificate
Any Identity Proof (like Voter ID, Passport, PAN Card, Driving License)
Bank Passbook
BPL Card Number

FAQ’s

If I remarry, will I still qualify for this pension and other benefits?

No, if you remarry, you will no longer be eligible for the scheme's benefits. The scheme is strictly for widows who are facing financial difficulties.

Can I get the free rice from the Anganwadi center even if I don't take their meals?

Yes, you can still receive 2kg of free rice each month from the Anganwadi center, even if you are not availing their nutritious meal program.

What if the free saree I receive is damaged or I lose it?

Unfortunately, the scheme does not provide for the replacement of sarees that are damaged or lost after they have been issued.

Is there a time limit for receiving the pension, saree, and rice?

As long as you continue to meet the eligibility requirements, there is no set time limit for receiving the benefits under this scheme. You will continue to receive them throughout your widowhood.

Can I choose the color or pattern of the free saree I get?

No, the selection of colors and designs for the free sarees distributed during Pongal and Deepavali is typically made by the government and cannot be chosen by the individual beneficiaries.

Can someone else collect the free rice for me if I can't go to the Anganwadi center myself?

Yes, you can give authorization to a family member or another trusted person to collect the rice on your behalf. You might need to fill out an authorization form from the Anganwadi center for this.

If I'm a disabled widow, are there any extra benefits available?

You may be eligible for additional support based on your specific needs. It's best to check with the Social Welfare Department to see if there are other schemes that might provide further assistance for differently-abled individuals.

How can I receive the monthly pension? Is it directly deposited?

The pension is usually transferred directly to your bank account. You will provide your bank details when you apply. You can also ask the staff at the Common Service Centre (CSC) if receiving it in cash at certain centers is an option.

Is it possible to exchange the free saree for money or something else?

No, the free saree is provided for your personal use and cannot be sold or exchanged for cash or any other goods. Doing so could be against the rules of the scheme.

Can I pick up the free rice on any day I choose?

No, Anganwadi centers usually have fixed days and times for distributing free rice. You should ask at your local center about their distribution schedule.

Are there ways to apply if I live far from a CSC, like mobile camps?

You can inquire with the Social Welfare Department about whether they conduct mobile camps or have other application points closer to your remote location.