AI SummaryFinancial Assistance under Working Journalist Welfare Scheme is a state-level scheme run by the Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Odisha. It gives money help to the families of working journalists in the unfortunate event of death or permanent incapacitation.
The scheme pays an ex-gratia of ₹4,00,000 to the legal heir when a working journalist dies, and ₹2,00,000 when a working journalist becomes permanently incapacitated. Applications are accepted online through the official portal owjws.odisha.gov.in.
Financial Assistance under Working Journalist Welfare Scheme - Introduction
This scheme works as a safety net for working journalists and their families in Odisha. When a working journalist passes away, the scheme provides a fixed cash relief to the widow, or in her absence, to the minor children. If the journalist leaves behind no spouse or children, the support goes to the parents.
In case a journalist suffers from permanent incapacitation, the scheme helps sustain the family by providing financial assistance. The legal heir can apply for this benefit online through the dedicated portal managed by the Information & Public Relations Department.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Financial Assistance under Working Journalist Welfare Scheme |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary State | Odisha |
| Category | Social welfare & Empowerment |
| Target Beneficiaries | Family, Individual |
| Sub Category | Financial assistance |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| DBT Scheme | No |
| Nodal Department | Information and Public Relations Department |
| Implementing Agency | Information & Public Relations Department, Government of Odisha |
Benefits
This scheme offers cash support to help families manage difficult times. The amount given depends on the situation of the working journalist.
| Condition | Ex-Gratia Amount |
|---|---|
| Death of Working Journalist | ₹4,00,000 |
| Permanent Incapacitation | ₹2,00,000 |
Eligibility
To get this support, the applicant should meet the following conditions:
- The journalist should be actively working within the state of Odisha.
- The media house employing the journalist should be registered with the I&PR department, Odisha.
- The applicant should be the legal heir of the journalist who has either passed away or suffered from permanent incapacitation.
Note: "Permanent Incapacitation" refers to a situation where a journalist becomes fully unfit for their profession due to an accident, serious illness, or other medical reasons. For example, if a reporter becomes bedridden due to a severe road accident, they would qualify under this definition.
Application Process
Online Application Process
STEP 1 - Visit the official portal at owjws.odisha.gov.in.
STEP 2 - Select the 'Apply for Financial Assistance' link located at the bottom of the home page.
STEP 3 - You will be directed to an application form specifically for death or permanent incapacitation cases.
STEP 4 - Fill in all the required details accurately.
STEP 5 - Submit the form and save the Application Number generated for tracking your status.
STEP 6 - You will receive an SMS confirmation on your registered mobile number once the submission is successful.
STEP 7 - To check your application status, log in to the portal using your registered mobile number.
STEP 8 - Authenticate your login through the OTP sent to your phone.
STEP 9 - Once logged in, you can easily view your current application status.
Documents
Keep these documents ready for a smooth online application process:
- Aadhaar Card
- Recent Photograph
- Income Certificate
- Copy of accreditation card (for accredited journalists)
- Death Certificate (if applicable)
- Legal Heir Certificate (if applicable)
- Media Card Copy
- Front Page of Bank Passbook
- Any other supporting documents requested by the officials
References
Welfare Fund Rules and Ex-Gratia Document 2026
FAQ's
What is Financial Assistance under Working Journalist Welfare Scheme?
This is a welfare scheme by the Government of Odisha that provides financial support to the legal heirs of working journalists who face death or permanent incapacitation.
Who is eligible to receive the benefits?
The scheme supports legal heirs of working journalists who are employed by media houses registered with the I&PR department in Odisha.
How much is the grant awarded in case of death?
The scheme provides an ex-gratia payment of ₹4,00,000 to the legal heir of the deceased journalist.
What amount is provided for permanent incapacitation?
In cases where a journalist becomes permanently incapacitated, an amount of ₹2,00,000 is granted to provide relief.
Who qualifies as a legal heir to make the claim?
Generally, the widow or minor children are the primary beneficiaries. In the absence of a spouse or children, the journalist's parents can apply for the assistance.
How is Permanent Incapacitation defined?
It is defined as any physical or mental state resulting from accidents or diseases that renders a journalist completely unable to continue their professional duties.
Where can I find more details about this scheme?
You can visit the Information & Public Relations Department office or check the official website for comprehensive details.
How can I apply for the scheme?
You should complete the application form online through the official portal at owjws.odisha.gov.in.