Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme | IGNWPS
Overview
The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) is a central government scheme under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). It provides a monthly pension to widows living below the poverty line to help them meet basic living expenses.
Objective
The scheme aims to provide financial security to widows from BPL households who often have no income source or family support. A regular monthly pension helps them live with dignity and meet essential needs.
Benefits
- Monthly pension of Rs 300 for widows aged 40 to 79 years
- Women aged 80 and above are covered under the Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme at a higher rate
- Pension is deposited directly to the beneficiary’s bank or post office account
- State governments may top up the pension amount from their own funds
Eligibility
- Applicant must be a widow aged between 40 and 79 years
- Must belong to a Below Poverty Line (BPL) household
- Should be a resident of the state where the application is made
- Aadhaar-linked bank account preferred for direct benefit transfer
Exclusions
- Widows who remarry are not eligible to continue receiving the pension
- Those above 80 years move to the IGNOAPS category
- Women not on the BPL list are excluded
- Those already receiving another pension under a central or state scheme may not be eligible
Application Process
- Visit the local Gram Panchayat, Ward Office, or Block Development Office
- Obtain and fill in the IGNWPS application form
- Submit the completed form with supporting documents
- The application is verified by local authorities
- Approved beneficiaries are added to the state beneficiary list
- Pension is transferred monthly through the Direct Benefit Transfer mechanism
Documents Required
- Death certificate of the husband
- Age proof (birth certificate or school leaving certificate)
- BPL ration card or inclusion in BPL list
- Aadhaar card
- Bank or post office account details
- Passport-size photographs
- Residence proof
