Scheme of Death Benefit for Weavers and Artisans of West Bengal is a social welfare scheme that gives one-time financial support of ₹2,00,000 to the families of deceased weavers and artisans. This scheme helps bereaved families cope with the sudden loss of the main earner and offers a cash benefit of ₹2 lakh per deceased artisan or weaver.
Government of West Bengal runs this scheme through the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Textiles Department. It was launched on 7th March, 2024 and stays in force for five years, so it is still open for claims in 2026. Families can apply through the official online portal at deathbenefitartisan.wb.gov.in or by visiting the local BDO or SDO office.
Scheme of Death Benefit for Weavers and Artisans - Introduction
This scheme looks after the families of weavers and artisans who pass away before reaching 60 years of age. In most such households the weaver or artisan is the breadwinner, so an untimely death leaves the family with a big money problem. The scheme gives a one-time relief amount to the next of kin to help them during this difficult time.
The benefit is paid for each deceased weaver or artisan. The scheme covers the whole state of West Bengal and is run by the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Textiles Department. The official online portal for applying is deathbenefitartisan.wb.gov.in.
Key Information
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Scheme Name | Scheme of Death Benefit for Weavers and Artisans of West Bengal |
| Level | State |
| Beneficiary | Family of deceased weaver or artisan |
| Area of Operation | West Bengal |
| Category | Social welfare and Empowerment |
| Main Department | Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Textiles Department |
| Launch Date | 7th March, 2024 |
| Benefit Type | Cash |
| Benefit Amount | ₹2,00,000 one-time |
| Official Website | deathbenefitartisan.wb.gov.in |
Benefits
Eligible families receive a one-time cash benefit of ₹2,00,000 for each deceased weaver or artisan. This amount is paid to the next of kin to provide instant support after the loss of the family earner. The support is a single payment and not a regular one.
Eligibility
To qualify for this support, the family must meet the following conditions:
- The deceased weaver or artisan must have been between 18 and 60 years of age on the date of death.
- The death must have happened on or after the notification date, 7th March, 2024.
- The claimant must not have already received the benefit under any other death benefit scheme run by the State Government.
Application Process
Families can apply for the benefit by following these steps:
STEP 1 - Visit the official online portal at deathbenefitartisan.wb.gov.in or go to the local BDO or SDO office to get the application form.
STEP 2 - Fill in the form with correct details and attach all the required documents, including the death certificate and the certificate from the local BDO.
STEP 3 - Submit the completed application to the local BDO or SDO office in your Block or Municipal Corporation area within 3 months of the date of death.
Important Note: The claimant must produce a certificate from the local BDO confirming eligibility. In municipal areas the SDO office works with the Executive Officer of the municipality to check the claim.
Documents
Keep these documents ready before applying:
- Recent passport-sized photograph
- Aadhaar Card
- Death certificate of the weaver or artisan
- Any other documents asked by the local authorities
References
Directorate of Textiles, West Bengal
FAQ's
What is the definition of an Artisan?
An artisan is a person skilled in making items by hand or with small tools. This covers traditional crafts such as blacksmithy, pottery, carpentry, masonry, garland making, shoe making, laundry work, boat building and net making, among others.
Which department manages this scheme?
The Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises and Textiles Department implements and monitors this scheme.
How does the department check claims in rural areas?
The local BDO carries out an inquiry through an IDO or an Extension Officer with spot verification to confirm the identity of the claimant and the validity of the claim.
How does the department check claims in urban areas?
In municipal areas, the SDO office works with the Executive Officer of the municipality to carry out the required verification.
What happens if false information is given?
If a claimant misrepresents facts or gives false information, the authorities cancel all claims under the scheme.
Are there special rules for Darjeeling and Kalimpong?
Yes, for these districts the department releases funds to the Gorkha Territorial Administration (GTA) for payment. The sanctioned list is put up on the notice boards of the DM office and the GTA office.
What document proves my eligibility?
You must get and submit a certificate from your local BDO confirming your eligibility status.
What is the main aim of this scheme?
The aim is to give financial relief to the families of weavers and artisans after their untimely death.
When was the scheme launched?
The scheme was launched on 7th March, 2024 and stays in force for five years.
Who is the target beneficiary?
The immediate family members of deceased weavers and artisans in West Bengal are the target beneficiaries.
What is the total benefit amount?
The scheme gives a fixed one-time amount of ₹2,00,000.
How can I apply for these benefits?
You can apply online at deathbenefitartisan.wb.gov.in or submit the application form to your local BDO or SDO office.
Is there an income limit for eligibility?
No, there is no specific family income limit required to be eligible for this support.
Is the support given regularly?
No, the financial support is given as a one-time payment.
What is the deadline for applying?
You should submit your application within 3 months of the death of the weaver or artisan.