Are you a widow or destitute woman residing in Chandigarh? You may be eligible to receive financial assistance from the Chandigarh Administration for your dependent children’s upbringing and education. This welfare scheme aims to support underprivileged families by easing the financial burden of raising children.
In this article, we will explain everything you need to know about this scheme, including its purpose, eligibility criteria, benefits, required documents, and how to apply online or offline.
What is the Financial Assistance Scheme for Children of Widows and Destitute Women?
The Department of Social Welfare, Chandigarh Administration runs a welfare scheme to provide monthly financial aid to dependent children of widows and destitute women. This scheme ensures that children receive proper nutrition, education, and basic needs without facing financial hardship.
Objective of the Scheme
The main objectives of this scheme are:
- To empower widows and destitute women by supporting their children’s development.
- To ensure better health, education, and upbringing of children from vulnerable families.
- To promote social inclusion and reduce poverty in Chandigarh.
Who is Eligible for the Scheme?
Here are the eligibility criteria for applying:
- Resident of Chandigarh: The applicant must be a permanent resident of the Union Territory of Chandigarh.
- Widows or Destitute Women: The mother should be a widow or destitute (abandoned, divorced, or separated without support).
- Children’s Age: Financial assistance is provided for children below 21 years of age, and for girls up to marriage if that happens earlier.
- Income Limit: The annual family income must not exceed ₹60,000.
- School Enrollment: Children must be regularly attending school (not applicable to infants or children below school age).
Benefits Provided under the Scheme
Eligible families will receive a monthly financial aid of ₹500 per child, subject to a maximum of two children per family.
- Assistance is directly transferred to the beneficiary’s bank account through DBT (Direct Benefit Transfer).
- The aid is granted every month and may continue as long as eligibility conditions are met.
Documents Required for Application
Applicants need to submit the following documents:
- Application Form (duly filled and signed)
- Proof of Residence (Aadhaar card, voter ID, or Chandigarh domicile certificate)
- Death Certificate of husband (for widows) or affidavit in case of separation/desertion
- Income Certificate issued by competent authority
- Birth Certificates of children
- School Certificate or bonafide letter from the school (for school-going children)
- Bank Account Details (passbook copy or canceled cheque)
- Passport-size photographs of applicant and children
How to Apply for the Scheme
You can apply for this scheme either online or offline.
✅ Offline Process:
- Download the application form from the official Chandigarh Social Welfare Department website.
- Fill out the form and attach the required documents.
- Submit the application to:
- District Social Welfare Officer (DSWO)
- Or your nearest Anganwadi Centre or Sewa Kendra
✅ Online Process:
- Visit the official Chandigarh Administration portal: https://chandigarh.gov.in
- Go to eServices → Social Welfare Schemes
- Select the scheme: “Financial Assistance to Dependent Children of Widows and Destitute Women”
- Register/Login and fill the application form.
- Upload scanned documents.
- Submit the form and note the reference number for future tracking.
How is the Application Processed?
- Verification: Field staff will verify the details and documents submitted.
- Approval: Once verified, the application will be reviewed and sanctioned by the concerned authority.
- Disbursement: Monthly assistance will begin from the month of approval and credited to the applicant’s bank account.
Things to Keep in Mind
- Update any changes in family or income status immediately to avoid disqualification.
- Ensure your bank account is linked with Aadhaar for seamless DBT.
- Reapply or renew the application if required by the department after a specific period.
Contact Information
For queries or support:
- Department of Social Welfare, Chandigarh
- Helpline: 0172-2700357 / 2700051
- Email: swdchd@gmail.com
- Website: http://chdsw.gov.in
Final Words
This scheme is a lifeline for widows and destitute women in Chandigarh, offering hope and support for a better future for their children. If you or someone you know fits the eligibility criteria, don’t hesitate to apply and take full advantage of this government support program.
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