Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme continues to provide financial support to widows in Punjab. As of August 2026, the scheme remains active and open for applications across the state. Eligible widows from BPL families receive a monthly pension of ₹300, and those aged 80 and above get ₹500 per month.

This central scheme runs under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) and is managed by the Ministry of Rural Development, Government of India. Punjab state also provides a state-level top-up, bringing the total monthly benefit to ₹500 or more depending on the state contribution. The scheme helps widows meet daily needs and maintain financial dignity.

Applications can be submitted both online through the UMANG portal and offline at the District Social Security Officer office. The online process has been simplified with digital document verification and Aadhaar-based authentication. Eligible people receive payments directly into their bank accounts through DBT (DBT payment).

Punjab residents who are widows and belong to below poverty line families can apply for this scheme. The eligibility criteria are straightforward, and the application process is designed to be accessible. This article explains the benefits, eligibility, documents, and steps to apply for Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme in Punjab.

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme - Key Details

Below is a quick look at the main details of the scheme:

Benefits

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme provides the following financial support to eligible widows:

The central government pays ₹300 per month for widows aged 40 to 79 and ₹500 per month for those aged 80 and above. Punjab state adds its own top-up amount, making the total monthly benefit higher. Payments are made directly to the beneficiary's bank account through DBT.

Eligibility

To receive benefits under Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme, you must meet these requirements:

Widows from Punjab can check if they qualify with the following points:

• You must be a permanent resident of Punjab.
• You must be a widow.
• You should be at least 40 years of age.
• Your family must be recognized as below poverty line (BPL).
• You should have an Aadhaar-linked bank or post office account for DBT payment.

Widows below 40 years of age are not covered under this central scheme but may be eligible for state-specific widow pension programs in Punjab.

Documents Required

Keep the following documents ready before starting your application:

Having these documents prepared will help you complete the application without delays:

• Identity proof such as Voter ID or Driving License
• Husband's death certificate
• Residence proof
• Valid proof of age
• BPL card or related family poverty status documents
• Caste certificate if applicable
• Bank passbook or official account details

Application Process

Online Application

STEP 1 - Visit the UMANG portal and complete your registration using your mobile number and OTP.

STEP 2 - Log in with your credentials and search for the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) section.

STEP 3 - Click on the link to apply for Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme. Fill in your details accurately and upload the required documents.

STEP 4 - Carefully review your application before submitting it. Once submitted, you will see a confirmation message with your application reference number.

STEP 5 - Save the acknowledgment receipt and use the reference number to track your application status on the portal.

Offline Application

STEP 1 - Visit the office of the District Social Security Officer in your district to collect the official application form.

STEP 2 - Fill in all required details, attach a recent passport-sized photograph, and include self-attested copies of your documents.

STEP 3 - Submit your completed application to the District Social Security Officer and collect a receipt of your submission.

STEP 4 - Follow up on your application status using the receipt or visit the office periodically for updates.

References

For the latest updates and official guidelines, you can visit the IGNWPS page on UMANG portal and the NSAP section on UMANG.

FAQ's

What are the age and residency requirements for this scheme?

You must be a resident of Punjab, a widow, and at least 40 years old, belonging to a BPL family.

How much pension will I receive if I am between 40 and 79 years old?

You will receive ₹300 per month from the central government, plus a state top-up that brings the total to ₹500 or more.

Does the pension amount increase after the age of 80?

Yes, your central pension increases to ₹500 per month once you attain the age of 80.

Is it required to hold a BPL card?

Yes, you must submit a valid BPL card to prove your family's economic status.

What identity proof is accepted?

You can use documents like a Voter ID card or a Driving License as identity proof.

Is the husband's death certificate required?

Yes, providing the death certificate of your late husband is a required step in the application process.

How do I apply for this scheme offline?

You should visit the local District Social Security Officer to obtain and submit the application form in person.

Can I submit my application online?

Yes, you can apply easily through the UMANG portal by following the registration and application steps.

Should I keep a receipt after submitting my application?

Yes, you should always request and keep an acknowledgment receipt that includes your submission date and tracking details.

What if I am a widow under 40 years of age?

Currently, the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme is only open to widows aged 40 and above. You may check for state-specific widow pension options in Punjab.