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Social welfare & Empowerment; Women and Child

Pension to Unmarried Poor, Incapacitated Women of Age 50 years and above

The 'Pension to Unmarried Poor, Incapacitated Women of age 50 years and above' was launched by the Social Welfare and Women Empowerment Department, Tamil Nadu. The scheme aims to provide a pension of ₹1,000/- to unmarried, poor, incapacitated women of age 50 years and above.

Authority

State/ UT

Region

Tamil Nadu

Status

Verified 2026

Updated

March 2026

What you get

Pension: | - ₹1,000/- per month. | Free Clothes during Pongal and Deepavali: | - One free saree. | Free Rice in Anganwadi Centres: | - 2kg/month to those who are taking nutritious meals. | - 4kg/month to those who are not taking nutritious meals.

Who can apply

The applicant should be a woman.; The applicant should be destitute.; The applicant should be unmarried.; The applicant's age should be 50 years and above.; The applicant's fixed assets should not exceed ₹1,00,000/-.

Required Paperwork

  • Aadhaar Card
  • PAN Card
  • Income Certificate
  • Residence Proof (Domicile)

Common Questions

I am physically unable to collect the free rice from the Anganwadi center. Can someone else collect it on my behalf?

Yes, you can authorize a family member or trusted individual to collect the rice on your behalf. You might need to complete an authorization form

Can I choose the color or design of the free saree?

No, the scheme typically provides pre-selected colors and designs for the free sarees distributed during Pongal and Deepavali.

Will the application process cost me anything?

No, applying for the scheme is completely free. You shouldn't pay any fees at the CSC or to any individual for processing your application.

Is there a specific deadline to apply for the scheme?

No, the Pension to Unmarried Poor, Incapacitated Women of age 50 years and above scheme is an ongoing initiative, and you can apply at any time.

I am 50 years old and recently separated from my husband. Can I apply right away?

Yes, as long as you meet the other eligibility criteria (destitute, unmarried), you can apply for the scheme even if you just separated from your husband.

I live in a remote area. Are there alternative ways to apply besides visiting the CSC?

You can inquire with the Social Welfare Department about potential mobile camps or designated application centers closer to your location.

Do I need to renew my application every year to continue receiving the benefits?

No, once approved, you don't need to reapply every year. However, you might need to update your information periodically, as instructed by the authorities.

I don't have access to a computer or the internet at home. How can I apply?

You can still apply by visiting the nearest CSC. They have the necessary facilities to complete the application process on your behalf.

Can I apply for the scheme online without visiting the CSC?

Currently, applying for the scheme requires visiting the nearest Common Service Center (CSC). They will assist you with the application process, including biometric verification and document upload.

I am a 48-year-old widowed woman. Can I apply for the scheme now?

No, unfortunately, the minimum age requirement to apply for the scheme is 50 years old. You can apply once you reach that age.

I am a victim of domestic violence and separated from my husband. Am I eligible to apply?

Yes, if you are legally separated from your husband, you would be considered "unmarried" and potentially eligible for the scheme, provided you meet the other criteria.

Is the pension amount credited directly to my bank account, or can I receive it another way?

The pension is typically deposited directly into your bank account. You'll provide your bank details during the application process. However, you can inquire with the CSC staff about the possibility of receiving the pension in cash at designated centers, subject to availability and approval.