Samajik Sewa Bhatta Scheme supports traditional faith healers in Sikkim by providing a monthly pension of ₹1,500 to help honor their cultural contributions and preserve unique healing practices.
Samajik Sewa Bhatta Scheme - Introduction
Samajik Sewa Bhatta Scheme acts as a vital support system for traditional faith healers by offering a monthly pension. Through this scheme, the Culture Department of the Government of Sikkim grants a monthly amount of ₹1,500 to eligible healers to ensure their dedication to cultural service is recognized.
This initiative protects the traditional healing practices that form a core part of Sikkim's cultural identity. by covering 1,500 beneficiaries, the government actively works to sustain these time honored traditions while providing financial security to the practitioners.
Key Information
| Key | Details |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Samajik Sewa Bhatta Scheme |
| Level | State |
| Scheme For | Individual |
| Beneficiary State | Sikkim |
| Category | Social welfare & Empowerment |
| Benefit Type | Cash monthly pension |
| Nodal Department | Cultural Affairs & Heritage Department |
| Launch Date | 2008-09-06 |
Benefits
Eligible traditional faith healers receive a monthly pension of ₹1,500. This benefit extends to various practitioners, including Dhami, Jhakri, Bijjuwa, Bhungthing, Mangpa, Phedengba, Paw, Baidang, Janapa, Yeba, Yema, Sambas, and Pheriwala.
Eligibility
To apply for this scheme, you should meet the following criteria:
- You should be a permanent resident of Sikkim.
- You should actively serve as a traditional faith healer belonging to categories such as Dhami, Jhakri, Bijjuwa, Bhungthing, Mangpa, Phedengba, Paw, Baidang, Janapa, Yeba, Yema, Sambas, or Pheriwala.
Exclusions
Please note that practitioners involved in Sudeni Bhatta, which refers to home delivery childbirth services, are not eligible for this support scheme.
Application Process
You should follow these steps to apply for the scheme through the offline method:
- Draft your application on plain paper expressing your intent to join the scheme.
- Gather all required supporting documents and ensure you have self attested copies where necessary.
- Submit your completed and signed application along with all relevant documents to the Secretary, Culture Department.
Documents
You will need to provide the following documents to complete your application:
- Certificate from Gram Panchayat or Ward Councillor for rural residents.
- Police Verification Report for urban applicants.
- Attested copy of your Sikkim Subject Certificate, Certificate of Identification, Aadhaar Card, or Voter ID Card.
- Two recent passport size photographs.
- Attested copy of your bank passbook showing clearly visible account details.
- A photograph of yourself wearing traditional healer attire.
- Income certificate issued by the Block Development Officer, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, or District Collector.
- Life certificate updated every six months by the Block Development Officer, Sub-Divisional Magistrate, or District Collector.
References
View Official Guidelines (available on the Sikkim Culture Department website.)
FAQ's
What is the primary goal of Samajik Sewa Bhatta Scheme?
The main purpose is to support traditional faith healers and help preserve the rich cultural heritage of Sikkim.
Who manages the implementation of the scheme?
The Culture Department under the Government of Sikkim manages this program.
Who qualifies to receive the pension?
Traditional faith healers, including Jhakri, Dhami, Bijjuwa, and other listed practitioners, are eligible to apply.
What amount will beneficiaries get?
The scheme provides a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,500.
How many people can benefit from this scheme?
The scheme currently supports a total of 1,500 beneficiaries.
Are urban dwellers eligible to apply?
Yes, urban applicants can apply provided they submit a valid Police Verification Report.
Is there a specific age limit?
The official notification does not specify any age restrictions for applicants.
Who does not qualify for this support?
Practitioners of Sudeni Bhatta (home childbirth delivery) are not covered under this specific program.
When is the pension money released?
The financial assistance is provided on a monthly basis.
Where should the application papers be sent?
You should submit your application to the Secretary, Culture Department, Government of Sikkim.
