If you do happen to know a widow barely managing, this news might prove to be life-changing. The government of India and the majority of states have made a major overhaul of the Widow Pension Scheme in 2025. From barely making ends meet, it is now doubling or even tripling the assistance.
Let us take a step-by-step walk through what is new, who qualifies, and how to apply simply online or offline.
New Pension Amounts Announced by States
Earlier, most women were getting ₹300 to ₹1000 every month. Even that was not sufficient for basic needs. But now the situation is different. Here are new pension amounts in some states:
Uttar Pradesh: ₹1500/month
Bihar: ₹1500/month (from ₹400)
Madhya Pradesh: ₹2000/month
Maharashtra: ₹3000/month
Every state has varying amounts based on their budget and the needs of its citizens. This raise is to ensure the widows get more financial security, particularly those who come from poor backgrounds.
Who Can Obtain This Pension in 2025
To qualify for this pension, the widow will have to satisfy a couple of general requirements:
She should be a widow (husband’s death certificate required)
She should be above 18 years
Her family income must be less than ₹1.5 lakh (different for different states)
She cannot have re-married
Her name should be enlisted in the BPL card or state’s welfare list
Once all these are satisfied, she can apply and receive monthly pension allowances.
Online Application for Widow Pension
Online application is easy and hassle-free:
1. Visit your state’s Social Welfare Department website
2. Look for the Widow Pension Scheme page
3. Complete the form and upload documents such as Aadhaar, death certificate, bank passbook, etc.
4. Fill out the form and keep the acknowledgement number.
Offline Application Also Possible Available
Without online, she can also apply offline:
1. Go to the nearest Jan Seva Kendra or Panchayat Office
2. Obtain and fill the pension form
3. Enclose documents and deliver them to the office.
After verification, the amount will be credited to her bank account on a monthly basis.
Key Documents Needed
Aadhaar Card
Death Certificate of Husband
Proof of Residence
Passbook of the Bank
Passport Photo
BPL Card or Social Security List Proof
What to Do If Her Name Is Not Mentioned
In case her name is not in the list of schemes, she can:
Reapply from Jan Seva Kendra or online
Complain if previously listed but later deleted
Check status of the application on official website
This initiative is a lifeline to ensure that the help reaches every deserving woman.