Widow and Destitute Women Pension Scheme gives a monthly pension of ₹1,500 to widows, destitute women, and unmarried women in Punjab who do not have a steady income. The state government has earmarked more than ₹1,200 crore for this scheme in the financial year 2026-27, and over 6.91 lakh women are getting the benefit across Punjab.
Eligible women can apply through the Digital Punjab portal online or submit a physical form at the nearest government office. Department of Social Security and Development of Women and Children manages this scheme for the state.
Widow and Destitute Women Pension Scheme - Introduction
Widow and Destitute Women Pension Scheme helps at-risk women in Punjab get a fixed monthly income so that they can cover basic daily needs like food, clothing, and treatment costs. The pension amount is sent directly to the bank account of the eligible woman through DBT payment.
In June 2026, the state government released over ₹305 crore for this pension scheme up to the month of May. Minister for Social Security, Women and Child Development, Dr. Baljit Kaur, said the government has kept ₹1,200 crore in the budget for 2026-27 so that the benefit reaches every eligible woman in the state.
Key Information
| Key Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Widow / Destitute Women Pension Scheme |
| Level | State |
| Scheme Target | Individual |
| State | Punjab |
| Category | Social Welfare and Empowerment, Women and Child |
| Benefit Type | Direct Cash Transfer |
| Monthly Pension | ₹1,500 |
| Main Department | Department of Social Security and Development of Women and Children |
Benefits
Eligible women get ₹1,500 every month in their bank account. The money helps with daily expenses, food, and treatment costs. In 2026, the pension amount and the direct payment process remain the same, and the money reaches the woman's bank account on time.
Eligibility
To apply for this pension, the woman must meet the following conditions:
- She should be a permanent resident of Punjab.
- Her total annual family income should not be more than ₹60,000, including business, rental, or interest income.
- She should fall in one of the categories given in the table below.
| Category | Age Requirement |
|---|---|
| Widow or Destitute Women | Below 58 years |
| Unmarried Women | Above 30 years |
Application Process
Online Application Process
Women can apply online for this pension through the Digital Punjab portal. Follow the steps given below:
STEP 1 - Visit the Digital Punjab citizen service portal and open the page for financial support to widows and destitute women.
STEP 2 - Log in to the portal using your email address or mobile number. New users need to register first on the Digital Punjab login page.
STEP 3 - Fill the application form with correct personal, family, and bank details.
STEP 4 - Upload scanned copies of the required documents.
STEP 5 - Submit the application and note down the acknowledgement number for future use.
Offline Application Process
Women who find the offline process easier can also apply by visiting the nearest government office.
STEP 1 - Get the application form from the official scheme page of Social Security and Development of Women and Children department or from the nearest service centre.
STEP 2 - Fill the form clearly and attach the required documents.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed application form at the local government office, DPO office, or designated service centre.
Documents
Keep these documents ready before starting the application:
- Death certificate of the husband, for widows.
- Valid court or panchayat judgment, or divorce deed, for divorced destitute women.
- Proof of birth such as voter card, matriculation certificate, birth registrar certificate, or Aadhaar card.
- First page copy of the bank passbook.
- Disability certificate or UDID card, if applicable.
- Signed self-declaration form.
References
For more details, refer to the official sources given below:
- Official scheme page
- Online application portal
- Official scheme guidelines
- June 2026 news about pension payments
FAQ's
What is Widow and Destitute Women Pension Scheme?
This Punjab government social welfare scheme gives a monthly pension to widows, destitute women, and unmarried women who do not have a steady income.
What amount will I receive as a beneficiary?
You will receive ₹1,500 every month, sent directly to your bank account.
Who is eligible to apply for this pension?
Permanent residents of Punjab who are widows, destitute women, or unmarried women, and who meet the age and income conditions, can apply.
What is the annual income limit?
The total annual family income should not exceed ₹60,000, including business, rental, or interest income.
How can I submit my application?
You can apply online through the Digital Punjab portal or submit a physical application form at the nearest government office.