The government offers various welfare schemes to support different sections of society, including senior citizens, widows, persons with disabilities, and children in need of care. These schemes provide financial assistance to improve their quality of life. Below is a detailed overview of different pension plans, scholarships, and care services available.
Types of Pension Schemes
1. Disability Pension
This pension is available for individuals with a disability ranging from 40% to 49%. The applicant must have an income below Rs. 1,000 per month. Eligible individuals can apply at the Block Development Officer/BDO office. The pension amount provided is Rs. 750 per month.
2. Old Age Pension
Senior citizens above the age of 60 years with an income below Rs. 1,000 per month can avail themselves of this pension. The financial assistance provided is Rs. 750 per month. Applications can be submitted at the BDO office.
3. Widow Pension
Widowed women who are 18 years or older and have an income below Rs. 1,000 per month are eligible for this pension. The pension amount is Rs. 750 per month. Applications should be submitted to the BDO office.
4. Manabik Pension
This scheme is specifically for individuals with a disability of 50% or more. The annual income limit for eligibility is Rs. 1 lakh. The pension amount provided is Rs. 1,000 per month. Eligible applicants should apply at the BDO office.
Scholarship for Handicapped Students
Students with disabilities studying up to Class VIII can receive a scholarship of Rs. 300 per month. To be eligible, their family income must be below Rs. 3,000 per month. Applications should be submitted at the BDO office.
Non-Institutional Care for Destitute Children
Children in need of care who belong to financially weaker sections can receive Rs. 60 per month under this scheme. The income criteria for eligibility is below Rs. 3,000 per month. Applications can be submitted at the BDO office.
National Trust Support for Disabled Persons
The National Trust provides legal guardianship certification for disabled individuals. Applications can be made online through the District Magistrate’s office. Additionally, students with disabilities can apply online for scholarships through the National Trust Portal at www.thenationaltrust.gov.in.
Economic Rehabilitation Grant (ERG)
This grant is designed to support disabled individuals who wish to start small businesses. The applicant’s income should be below Rs. 3,000 per month. A one-time financial grant of Rs. 10,000 is provided under this scheme.
Cottage Homes for Boys and Girls
Children from economically weaker backgrounds between the ages of 6 and 18 can seek admission to government-run cottage homes. To be eligible, the family’s monthly income should be below Rs. 3,000. Applications must be submitted at the BDO office.
Admission to Government Boys’ Home
Destitute children who need shelter and care can be admitted to government-run boys’ homes. Admission is granted by an order of the Child Welfare Committee. Children needing protection should be presented at the CWC office, located at the Subhayan Home premises.
Juvenile Justice Board (JJB) Support
Children (0-18 years) who are victims of assault, injury, or in conflict with the law should be produced before the Juvenile Justice Board at Subhayan Home Campus. The board will take necessary actions to ensure their protection and rehabilitation.
Child Welfare Committee Support
Children (0-18 years) in need of care and protection can be presented before the CWC. The committee will ensure their restoration and placement at Subhayan Home premises.
Admission to Specialized Adoption Agency, Hili
Abandoned and orphaned children aged 0-6 years can be admitted to the Specialized Adoption Agency through the CWC. Parents who wish to surrender their children can do so through the CWC and the District Child Protection Unit in Dakshin Dinajpur.
Adoption Services
Individuals or couples interested in adopting a child may contact the District Child Protection Unit, Dakshin Dinajpur, or the Specialized Adoption Agency (SAA) in Teor, Hili. The contact number for SAA is 9932326792. In case of any violation of child rights, concerned authorities can reach out to the District Child Protection Officer (DCPO) at 9433433778.
Looking Ahead
The government has introduced multiple pension schemes, scholarships, and child welfare programs to provide financial assistance and protection to those in need. These schemes are designed to support senior citizens, widows, persons with disabilities, and destitute children.