Widow Pension Scheme 2025 : The government is stepping up its social support efforts in 2025 with a big move—widows and widowers across India can now get a monthly pension of ₹5,000 under the updated Widow Pension Scheme. This financial relief is aimed at helping those who’ve lost their spouse and are struggling to meet basic expenses.
Whether you live in a village or a big city, this scheme could offer some much-needed stability—especially if you’re above 40 and have no steady income.
What Is the Widow Pension Scheme 2025?
The Widow Pension Scheme 2025 is part of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) and is run jointly by the central and state governments. With the recent update, eligible applicants will receive a fixed ₹5,000 every month, directly credited to their bank accounts through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT).
This initiative targets vulnerable individuals—mostly widows and widowers—who often lack financial support after their partner passes away.
Who Can Apply?
Here’s a quick breakdown of the eligibility criteria:
- Must be a widow or widower
- Age should be 40 years or older (varies by state)
- Annual income should fall below ₹1 lakh–₹2 lakh, depending on your state
- Not receiving any other government pension
- Must be a permanent resident of the state where applying
State-wise Criteria Snapshot
| State | Age Limit | Income Cap | Documents Required |
| UP | 40+ | ₹1,00,000 | Aadhaar, Ration Card |
| Maharashtra | 40+ | ₹1,50,000 | Aadhaar, Bank Passbook |
| Tamil Nadu | 45+ | ₹2,00,000 | Voter ID, Aadhaar |
| Rajasthan | 40+ | ₹1,20,000 | Aadhaar, BPL Card |
| Karnataka | 42+ | ₹1,50,000 | Aadhaar, PAN Card |
| Bihar | 40+ | ₹1,00,000 | Aadhaar, BPL Card |
How to Apply: Online or Offline
Applying is easy and can be done online in most states. Here’s a step-by-step:
- Visit your state’s official welfare or pension portal
- Register with your Aadhaar and mobile number
- Fill out your details (name, income, spouse’s death info, etc.)
- Upload documents (death certificate, income proof, ID)
- Submit and note your application number for tracking
Offline applications can also be submitted at your local Panchayat office, BDO, or District Social Welfare Office.
What You’ll Need:
- Spouse’s death certificate
- Your Aadhaar card
- Income and domicile certificates
- Bank passbook copy
- Passport-size photo
When Will You Get the Money?
Pensions will be disbursed every month, with payments expected around the 10th of each month. For example:
- May: ₹5,000 – credited by May 10
- June: ₹5,000 – credited by June 10
…and so on.
Common Reasons for Rejection
- Missing or incorrect documents
- Income or age mismatch
- Duplicate or incomplete applications
- Not listed in BPL database (in some states)
Double-check all paperwork to avoid delays.
What’s Next?
- There’s talk of including younger widows with minor children soon
- Pension amount may increase based on inflation
- Potential tie-up with Ayushman Bharat for free health coverage