New Widow Pension Scheme From Govt: Get ₹6,000- Apply Today! Step By Step Guide(IGNWPS)

The widow pension in India is a key social security measure under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) designed to provide financial support to women who have lost their spouses and belong to economically disadvantaged households. The central scheme, known as the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS), offers monthly pension amounts of ₹300 for beneficiaries aged 40–79 years and ₹500 for those aged 80 and above. In addition, several states, including West Bengal, administer their own widow pension initiatives with higher benefits and additional eligibility criteria. Below, we explore the eligibility requirements, benefit amounts, and the step-by-step processes for applying both online and offline.

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)

The IGNWPS is the flagship national widow pension scheme under NSAP, administered by the Ministry of Rural Development. It aims to uplift widows from Below Poverty Line (BPL) households by providing them a modest but reliable source of income.

Eligibility and Benefit Amounts
Women must be aged between 40 and 79 years to receive ₹300 per month, and once they reach 80 years they become eligible for ₹500 per month. Beneficiaries must not be receiving any other government pension and must be classified under the BPL criteria used by the Government of India. According to official NSAP records, these pension rates have been in effect since 2024 and are transferred via Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to ensure transparency and prompt disbursal.

Online Application Process
To apply online, applicants should:

1. Visit the IGNWPS portal and register with a valid Aadhaar-linked mobile number.(link)
2. Complete the digital application form with personal details, BPL status, and bank account information.
3. Upload scanned copies of supporting documents such as the death certificate of the spouse, BPL certificate, Aadhaar card, and bank passbook.
4. Submit the form and note the reference number for tracking.

This streamlined process typically takes 15–30 days for verification and approval.

Offline Application Process
For those without reliable internet access, the offline route remains available:

• Collect the IGNWPS form from the District Social Welfare Office or your nearest block office.
• Fill in your details clearly and attach self-attested copies of the required documents.
• Submit the form to the designated official. Processing times are similar to the online method.

Applicants can visit their local welfare office to get assistance if needed.

West Bengal Widow Pension Scheme

West Bengal’s widow pension scheme, often called “Bidhoba Bhata,” supplements the national IGNWPS with enhanced benefits and tailored eligibility.

Eligibility and Pension Amount
Widows aged 60 years or above, who have been residents of West Bengal for at least ten years and whose family income does not exceed ₹1,000 per month, qualify for a pension of ₹1,000 per month. Additionally, beneficiaries must not be maintained by relatives or receive any other government pension. The state government disburses the amount directly to bank accounts under DBT to minimize delays.

Application Procedure

• Offline: Obtain Form-P from the Block Development Office (rural) or Sub-Divisional Officer’s office (urban). Complete the form, attach proof of residence, death certificate of spouse, income certificate, Aadhaar copy, and bank details, then submit to the respective office.
• Online: Currently, West Bengal primarily processes applications offline. Prospective applicants should verify with their local BDO or SDO for any pilot online initiatives.

Best Practices and Tips

1. Document Checklist: Keep clear copies of your Aadhaar card, spouse’s death certificate, income/BPL certificate, and bank passbook ready to avoid repeated visits.
2. Follow Up: Use the reference number provided after submission to track your application status through the IGNWPS portal or by inquiring at the welfare office.
3. Local Helplines: Many districts have dedicated social welfare helplines; note down these numbers from your block office to get timely updates.
4. Renewal and Update: Ensure that your bank account details and Aadhaar linkage remain valid to prevent payment disruptions.

Conclusion

Widow pension schemes in India—both the central IGNWPS and state-level variants like West Bengal’s Bidhoba Bhata—serve as critical lifelines for widows facing financial hardships. By understanding the precise eligibility norms, pension amounts, and application pathways, eligible women can effectively access these benefits. Whether applying online through the IGNWPS portal or via the offline route at local welfare offices, timely submission of accurate documents is key to ensuring uninterrupted monthly support.

For the most current guidelines and any recent enhancements to pension amounts, always consult your district social welfare office or the official NSAP notifications.