Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS): Benefits and Application Process

For many widows, the loss of a spouse is not only emotional but also financial, especially in households where income was already limited. The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) was introduced to ensure that widows from Below Poverty Line families receive consistent monthly support to meet basic living needs and regain a sense of financial stability.

This blog features all the details related to the IGNWPS scheme in India!

What is the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS)?

The “Pradhan Mantri Widow Pension Scheme” is a central government scheme under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). It provides monthly financial assistance to destitute widows from Below Poverty Line (BPL) families, usually aged between 40 and 79 years. 

The central contribution is around ₹300 per month, which increases to ₹500 per month for widows aged 80 years and above. The pension is discontinued if the widow remarries or if it is determined that her adult children are able to support her financially.

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) Overview

IWNWPS Benefits and Features

The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme exists to ensure that vulnerable widows are not left without basic support.

Here are the unique features of the IWNWPS:

• Monthly pension to help widows meet basic needs.
• ₹300 per month for widows aged 40 to 79 years.
• ₹500 per month for widows aged 80 years and above.
• Offers social security to widows from poor families.
• Centrally sponsored by the Ministry of Rural Development, with support from states.

IGNWPS Eligibility

The eligibility criteria under the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) are:

• The applicant must be a widow aged between 40 and 79 years.
• The applicant should belong to a household living below the poverty line, as per the criteria prescribed by the Government of India.

Want to learn about the support available for persons with disabilities as well? Explore the Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme.

Exclusions

The pension will be discontinued in the following cases:

• If the widow remarries.
• If the widow’s household moves above the Below Poverty Line category.

IGNWPS Application Process

Applying for the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme is a crucial step toward securing steady financial support for widows who need help meeting everyday expenses.

How to Apply for the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme- Online Method

• Step 1: Download the UMANG app or visit the UMANG website.
• Step 2: Log in using your registered mobile number and OTP.
• Step 3: Search for NSAP and select the pension scheme.
• Step 4: Click on Apply Online.
• Step 5: Fill in the required details, choose the pension payment mode, upload a photograph, and submit the application.

Offline Method

• Submit the completed application form at the Gram Panchayat or Block Office in rural areas, or at the Municipality or Municipal Council in urban areas.
• A verification officer checks the application based on eligibility details.
• The officer recommends approval or rejection with reasons.
• Applications are discussed in the Gram Sabha in rural areas or the Ward or Area Sabha in urban areas.
• After approval, the Sanctioning Authority issues a Sanction Order to the applicant.
• Approved beneficiaries receive a pension passbook with sanction and payment details.
• The pension amount is credited directly to the beneficiary’s bank or post office account through Direct Benefit Transfer.

Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme: IGNWPS Documents Required for Application

Applying for the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme begins with a few essential documents, each playing a key role in ensuring timely and rightful financial support for widows in need.

• Death certificate of the husband, clearly mentioning the name of the surviving wife (widow).
• Below Poverty Line (BPL) card.
• Proof of age, such as a birth certificate or school certificate.
• If these are not available, the ration card or EPIC may be accepted.
• In the absence of any valid document, an age certificate issued by a medical officer of a government hospital may be considered.

By offering a steady monthly pension and simple access through both online and offline channels, the scheme helps ensure basic dignity, security, and stability in everyday life.

If you are planning to receive government pensions or benefits like IGNWPS, opening a zero-balance savings account can make the process smoother. 

Disclaimer– The rankings and figures in this article have been compiled from multiple verified reports, credible news sources, and public financial data available as of 2025.
All values are approximate and may vary with newer updates, revisions, or changes in official records.

IGNWPS- FAQs

Source: https://www.myscheme.gov.in/, https://nsap.nic.in/