The Uttar Pradesh government has introduced the Leprosy Pension Scheme to provide financial support to individuals disabled due to leprosy. This initiative aims to improve the quality of life for those affected by leprosy, ensuring they have the necessary resources to meet their basic needs. Here’s a detailed overview of the scheme, including its objectives, benefits, eligibility criteria, and application process.
Objectives of the Leprosy Pension Scheme
The primary objectives of the Leprosy Pension Scheme are:
- To provide financial assistance to individuals disabled due to leprosy.
- To support the social and economic rehabilitation of leprosy-affected persons.
- To ensure a better quality of life for the beneficiaries by helping them meet their daily needs.
Benefits of the Scheme
Under the Leprosy Pension Scheme, eligible beneficiaries receive a monthly pension. The amount of the pension is determined by the state government and is subject to periodic reviews and adjustments. As of the latest update, the scheme provides a pension of ₹3000 per month to each eligible beneficiary.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Leprosy Pension Scheme, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Residency: The applicant must be a resident of Uttar Pradesh.
- Medical Condition: The applicant must be diagnosed with leprosy and have a disability resulting from the disease. The disability should be certified by a government medical authority.
- Age: There is no specific age limit mentioned for eligibility, but the applicant must be an adult (18 years or above) with a confirmed diagnosis and disability due to leprosy.
- Income: The applicant should belong to a low-income group, typically below the poverty line (BPL). However, exact income criteria may vary and should be verified from the local authorities.
Application Process
The application process for the Leprosy Pension Scheme involves several steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you apply:
1. Gather Necessary Documents
Before applying, ensure you have the following documents ready:
Proof of identity (Aadhar card, voter ID, etc.)
Proof of residence (ration card, utility bill, etc.)
Disability certificate issued by a recognized medical authority
Recent passport-sized photographs
Proof of income (BPL card or income certificate)
2. Obtain the Application Form
You can obtain the application form from the following sources:
- Local social welfare department office
- District Leprosy Office
- Online from the official Uttar Pradesh government website
3. Fill Out the Application Form
Complete the application form with accurate details. Make sure to fill in all required fields, including personal information, medical details, and income information.
4. Attach Supporting Documents
Attach copies of all the necessary documents to the filled-out application form. Ensure that all documents are properly attested.
5. Submit the Application
Submit the completed application form along with the supporting documents to the local social welfare department office or the District Leprosy Office. In some areas, there might be provision for online submission through the official government portal.
6. Verification and Approval
After submission, the concerned authorities will verify the information provided in the application. They may conduct a physical verification if required. Once verified, the application will be processed, and if approved, the pension will start getting disbursed.
7. Pension Disbursement
The pension amount will be directly credited to the beneficiary’s bank account on a monthly basis. Ensure that the bank details provided in the application form are accurate and up-to-date.