Samajik Sewa Bhatta Scheme

Description
The scheme "Samajik Sewa Bhatta Scheme" was launched by the Culture Department, Government of Sikkim. It aims to provide financial support to traditional faith healers across the state. Under this scheme, traditional faith healers receive a monthly pension to recognize and support their cultural and social contributions. It covers a total of 1,500 beneficiaries and seeks to preserve the traditional healing practices that are integral to the cultural heritage of Sikkim.

Exclusions
• Applicants related to Sudeni Bhatta (home delivery childbirth practitioners) are excluded under this scheme.

Benefits
• A monthly pension of ₹1,500/- is provided to traditional faith healers such as Dhami, Jhakri, Bijjuwa, Bhungthing, Mangpa, Phedengba, Paw, Baidang, Janapa, Yeba, Yema, Sambas, and Pheriwala.

Eligibility Criteria
1. The applicant should be a resident of Sikkim.
2. The applicant should be a traditional faith healer such as Dhami, Jhakri, Bijjuwa, Bhungthing, Mangpa, Phedengba, Paw, Baidang, Janapa, Yeba, Yema, Sambas, or Pheriwala.

Application Process
Step 1: Step 1: The interested applicant should write the application on plain paper.
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Step 1: The interested applicant should write the application on plain paper.

Step 2: Step 2: Attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attest, if required) along with the application.
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Step 2: Attach copies of all the mandatory documents (self-attest, if required) along with the application.

Step 3: Step 3: Submit the duly filled and signed application along with the documents to the Secretary, Culture Department.
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Step 3: Submit the duly filled and signed application along with the documents to the Secretary, Culture Department.

Required Documents
• Certificate from Gram Panchayat/Ward Councillor (for rural applicants)
• Police Verification Report (for urban applicants)
• Attested Copy of Sikkim Subject Certificate or Certificate of Identification, Aadhaar Card, Voter ID Card
• Two Passport Size Photographs
• Attested Copy of Bank Passbook Showing Account Details
• Full Attire Photograph in Traditional Healer Dress
• Income Certificate from Block Development Officer/Sub-Divisional Magistrate/District Collector
• Life Certificate Every Six Months from Block Development Officer/Sub-Divisional Magistrate/District Collector

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the purpose of this scheme?
A: To support and recognize the traditional faith healers and preserve cultural heritage.

Q: Who implements the scheme?
A: The Culture Department, Government of Sikkim.

Q: Who are eligible for this scheme?
A: Traditional faith healers such as Dhami, Jhakri, Bijjuwa, and others listed.

Q: How much pension is provided under the scheme?
A: Financial assistance of ₹1,500 per month.

Q: How many beneficiaries are covered?
A: A total of 1,500 beneficiaries.

Q: Can urban applicants apply?
A: Yes, but they must submit a Police Verification Report.

Q: Is there any age limit to apply?
A: The notification does not mention any age limit.

Q: What is excluded from the scheme?
A: Sudeni Bhatta (home childbirth practitioners) is excluded.

Q: How often is the pension disbursed?
A: Financial assistance is disbursed every month.

Q: Where should the application be submitted?
A: To the Secretary, Culture Department, Government of Sikkim.