CHANDIGARH: The Punjab Government provides a one-time financial assistance of ₹20, 000 to families under the National Family Benefit Scheme in case of the death of the primary breadwinner of the household.
Sharing more details, Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Dr. Baljit Kaur stated that families fulfilling the eligibility criteria can avail the benefits of this scheme in case of any kind of death (natural or otherwise). She further clarified that a woman in the household who is the primary source of income will also be considered a breadwinner, and her family will be eligible for financial assistance under this scheme.
Under this scheme, the term "family" includes the husband, wife, minor children, unmarried daughters, and dependent parents. In case an unmarried individual passes away, the assistance will be provided to their dependent younger siblings or parents.
It is important to note that the deceased breadwinner should be between 18 and 60 years of age at the time of death. Financial assistance will be granted in every case where these conditions are met.
The Minister also mentioned that, as per the 2011 Census, families classified as Below Poverty Line (BPL) or covered under the Socio-Economic Caste Census are eligible for this scheme.
Concluding her statement, the Minister emphasized that this scheme is another major initiative by the Punjab Government for social welfare. Eligible individuals can contact their respective District Social Security Officer to avail the benefits.