Union Territory of Lakshadweep Pension Scheme for Widows

Description
The scheme "Union Territory of Lakshadweep Pension Scheme for Widows" was introduced by the Social Welfare & Tribal Affairs Department, Union Territory of Lakshadweep, with the aim of providing monthly financial assistance to widows in the UT. The scheme covers widows who have not remarried and have no source of income. The District Panchayat and Village Dweep Panchayats VDPs of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep implement the scheme to ensure smooth processing and disbursement. The pension amount is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account.

Exclusions
• The applicant is not eligible if she has remarried.

Benefits
• Financial Assistance:
• Eligible beneficiaries receive a pension of ₹1,500/- per month (₹18,000 per annum).
• Mode of Disbursement:
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) to the beneficiary's bank account.
• Frequency of Disbursement:
• The pension is disbursed on a monthly basis.

Eligibility Criteria
1. The applicant should be a permanent resident of the Union Territory of Lakshadweep.
2. The applicant should be a widow.
3. The applicant should not have remarried.
4. The applicant should have only nominal income, not exceeding ₹1,500/- per month (₹18,000/- per annum).
5. The applicant should not be a beneficiary of any other similar pension scheme provided by the government.

Required Documents
• Identity proof
• Proof of Widowhood/Death Certificate of Husband
• Proof of Age
• Proof of Residence
• Income Certificate
• Bank Account Details
• Self-Declaration
• Any other documents if required

Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can a widow who has remarried apply for this pension?
A: No, remarried widows are not eligible for the pension.

Q: What documents are required to apply for this scheme?
A: Applicants need to submit proof of widowhood, proof of age, proof of residence, an income certificate, bank details, and a self-declaration confirming non-remarriage.

Q: Can the pension be transferred to another family member in case of the beneficiary’s death?
A: No.

Q: How frequently is the pension credited to the beneficiary’s bank account?
A: The pension is credited every month through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).

Q: Where can an applicant submit the application for this scheme?
A: The application can be submitted at the nearest Village (Dweep) Panchayat office.

Q: Can a widow residing outside Lakshadweep apply for this scheme?
A: No.

Q: What happens if a beneficiary does not receive the pension on time?
A: In case of delays, beneficiaries should contact the concerned Village (Dweep) Panchayat office.

Q: Are beneficiaries required to submit a self-declaration every year?
A: Yes, a self-declaration confirming non-remarriage and income status may be required periodically.

Q: Can an applicant without a bank account apply for the scheme?
A: No.

Q: Can a beneficiary reapply if her application was previously rejected?
A: Yes, if the applicant now meets the eligibility criteria, she can reapply with proper documentation.