Sthree Suraksha Scheme explained: Benefits, eligibility and how to apply

The Kerala government has opened applications for the Sthree Suraksha scheme, a welfare initiative that provides financial support of ₹1,000 per month to women who are not covered under any other welfare pension programs.

The Local Self Government Department (LSGD) of Kerala issued guidelines for filling applications on Monday, December 22. Here’s what you need to know about the scheme:

Sthree Suraksha scheme: 7 things to know

• Unemployed women between the ages of 35 and 60 years will get a pension of ₹1,000 per month.

• The applications will be accepted via the KSMART portal.

• Those who already receive widow, unmarried women, disability, service, family or EPF pensions are not eligible for this scheme.

• Only women and trans women who belong to the Antyodaya Anna Yojana (Yellow Ration Card) and Priority Categories (Pink Ration Card) are eligible to receive a pension under this scheme.

• Women employed in central or state government services are not eligible for the scheme.

• Those working on a permanent or contract basis will not be granted a pension under this scheme.

• Documents like proof of age, bank account details, Aadhaar, ration card and declaration will be required for the application.

Eligibility criteria

To be eligible for the Sthree Suraksha Scheme:

• Women and trans women must be between the ages of 35 and 60.

• Applicants must be permanent residents of Kerala.

• Applicants must not be covered under any other welfare scheme and must not be employed.

How to apply for the scheme

After submission, you will receive an Acknowledgement receipt.

The pension would be directly transferred to the beneficiaries' accounts.

Launch of Sthree Suraksha scheme

Earlier in October, the Kerala government announced the launch of a new Women's Security Scheme for women who are not covered under any existing social welfare programme. Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan announced the scheme during a media briefing.

CM Vijayan said that nearly 31.34 lakh women will benefit from this scheme. The government has allocated ₹3,800 crore annually for this scheme.

"The scheme is part of the government's continuing efforts to strengthen social security and ensure dignity for all sections of women, including trans women," the chief minister had said, as per a PTI report.