Big Relief for BPL Widows in Bihar: Widow Pension Scheme Offers ₹1,100 Monthly, Check Eligibility and Easy Process

The Bihar government has introduced a major relief measure for economically weaker widowed women by increasing financial assistance under the Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme. Under this social welfare initiative, eligible BPL (Below Poverty Line) widows are now receiving ₹1,100 per month as pension. The move is aimed at providing financial security, dignity, and long-term support to widowed women who are among the most vulnerable sections of society.

Here is a detailed, easy-to-understand guide covering the scheme’s benefits, eligibility criteria, application process, payment tracking, and grievance redressal system, in line with Google News guidelines.

What Is the Bihar Widow Pension Scheme?

The Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS) is a flagship social security programme implemented by the Bihar government through the Department of Social Welfare. The scheme focuses on widowed women who are financially weak and lack a steady source of income.

Under this programme, eligible widows living below the poverty line receive monthly financial assistance directly into their bank accounts. The pension is intended to help beneficiaries manage basic household needs, healthcare expenses, and daily living costs.

In 2025, the Bihar government significantly enhanced the pension amount, raising it from ₹400 to ₹1,100 per month, making it one of the more supportive widow pension schemes at the state level.

How Much Pension Is Provided Every Month?

Eligible beneficiaries now receive:

• ₹1,100 per month

• Payment is made through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)

• Funds are credited directly to the beneficiary’s bank account

• Transactions are processed via the PFMS (Public Financial Management System), ensuring transparency and timely payments

This system minimizes delays, prevents leakages, and ensures that the full pension amount reaches the rightful beneficiary.

Who Is Eligible for Bihar Widow Pension 2025?

To avail benefits under the Bihar Widow Pension Scheme, applicants must meet the following conditions:

• The applicant must be a resident of Bihar

• The woman must be widowed

• Age should be between 40 and 79 years

• The family must fall under the BPL category

• The applicant should not be receiving benefits from any other social security pension scheme

Only women fulfilling all eligibility criteria are approved for the pension.

How to Apply for the Bihar BPL Widow Pension Scheme?

The application process is designed to be simple and accessible, especially for rural beneficiaries.

Step-by-step application process:

1. Obtain and fill out the widow pension application form

2. Attach all required documents (such as age proof, widow certificate, BPL card, Aadhaar, and bank details)

3. Submit the signed application at the RTPS counter located in the Block Office

4. Collect and safely keep the acknowledgment receipt

Applicants are informed about the approval or rejection status via SMS or email. Once approved, beneficiaries can collect the official sanction order from the same RTPS counter by presenting the receipt and identity proof.

How to Check Widow Pension Payment Status Online?

Beneficiaries can easily track their pension payments online by following these steps:

1. Visit the official Social Security Pension MIS (SSPMIS) website

2. Click on “e-Beneficiary” under Important Links

3. Select the “Check Your Payment Status” option

4. Enter the financial year and beneficiary ID

5. Click on Search to view payment details

This facility allows beneficiaries to confirm whether the pension amount has been credited to their account.

Where to File Complaints Related to Widow Pension?

If a beneficiary faces issues such as delayed payment, incorrect details, or application rejection, complaints can be lodged through multiple channels:

• Call the toll-free helpline: 1800-345-6262

• Register a complaint via the online grievance portal

• Visit the Block Development Office, Sub-Divisional Office, or District Social Security Office

• File a complaint under the Bihar Right to Public Grievance Redressal Act, 2016

These mechanisms ensure accountability and timely resolution of beneficiary concerns.

Why This Scheme Matters

The enhanced pension amount under the Bihar Widow Pension Scheme reflects the government’s commitment to women’s welfare and social security. For BPL widows with limited income opportunities, the monthly assistance of ₹1,100 provides a crucial financial lifeline and promotes independence and dignity.

By simplifying the application process and ensuring direct bank transfers, the scheme has become more accessible and reliable, making it a vital support system for thousands of widowed women across Bihar.

Disclaimer: Scheme benefits, eligibility, and procedures are subject to official notifications. Applicants are advised to verify details through authorized government sources before applying.