In a significant move aimed at bolstering social security for women, the Kerala government has announced the commencement of applications for its flagship Women's Safety Scheme. The Principal Director of the Local Self Government Department confirmed that the portal for submissions will go live on December 22.
Eligibility and Key Benefits of the Scheme
This welfare initiative is designed to provide a monthly financial assistance of Rs 1,000 to women who are currently not covered under any other state pension or social welfare programs. The scheme specifically targets women and transwomen who are permanent residents of Kerala and fall within the age bracket of 35 to 60 years.
However, the eligibility criteria are specific. Applicants must possess either an Antyodaya Anna Yojana (yellow card) or a Priority (pink card) ration card. The government has also outlined clear exclusions. The following groups are not eligible to apply:
- Women receiving widow pension, unmarried pension, disability pension, or any service/family pension.
- Beneficiaries of the Employees' Provident Fund (EPF) pension.
- Individuals employed on a permanent or contractual basis in central/state government services, government-owned institutions, or universities.
Application Process and Required Documents
Interested and eligible candidates must submit their applications exclusively through the official website ksmart.lsgkerala.gov.in. The applications will be routed to the secretaries of the respective local self-government institutions.
A set of crucial documents must be furnished with the application. For age proof, applicants can submit a birth certificate, school certificate, driving licence, or passport. In the absence of these, a certificate from a medical officer will be accepted. Furthermore, applicants must provide their bank account details, IFSC code, and Aadhaar information.
A critical component of the application is a self-attested declaration. Once enrolled, beneficiaries are mandated to undergo an annual Aadhaar-based verification to continue receiving the benefit.
Important Conditions and Caveats
The scheme comes with strict guidelines to ensure proper utilization of funds. It is vital to note that the financial assistance cannot be transferred to heirs upon the beneficiary's demise. If a beneficiary is imprisoned or remanded for a month or more, the assistance for that period will be withheld.
The government has also issued a stern warning against fraudulent claims. If it is discovered that benefits were obtained by submitting false information, the entire amount will be recovered with an 18% interest penalty.
This initiative marks a focused effort by the state to extend a financial safety net to women from economically weaker sections who have been left out of other pension schemes, thereby enhancing their dignity and security.
