The government has revised family pension rules, allowing divorced and separated daughters to claim their deceased father’s pension directly, enhancing financial security and independence.
In a major step toward strengthening financial security for women, the government has revised its family pension rules. Divorced or separated daughters can now directly claim their deceased father’s pension without waiting for a legal ruling.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced these changes, which eliminate the requirement for a court verdict, allowing such daughters to access financial support more swiftly. This reform is part of a larger initiative to cut bureaucratic delays and provide timely relief to women facing difficult personal situations.
The revised rules aim to safeguard the financial stability of women going through separation or divorce, ensuring they receive the support they are entitled to. Singh emphasized, “We have taken firm steps to prevent women from facing financial hardships in such situations. These reforms eliminate bureaucratic barriers and offer immediate financial assistance.”
Under the new provisions, a woman pensioner can now nominate her children for the family pension instead of her husband if she has filed for divorce or initiated legal proceedings under laws addressing domestic violence or dowry harassment.
Furthermore, a childless widow can remarry without losing her deceased husband’s pension, as long as her income remains below the minimum pension threshold. These reforms are intended to enhance women’s autonomy and financial security, ensuring they maintain financial independence regardless of their marital status. By clarifying these legal provisions, the government is actively working to strengthen women’s financial rights and support their well-being.
In addition to pension security, the Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) has launched several initiatives to support women in government service. These include flexible child care leave, enabling single mothers to take up to two years of leave in phases, including travel abroad with their children.
Maternity benefits have also been expanded, providing paid leave in cases of miscarriage or stillbirth, highlighting the government’s commitment to supporting women through different life stages. These measures are part of a broader effort to foster a more inclusive and supportive work environment, particularly for women managing both career and family responsibilities.
Alongside these family-friendly policies, the government is introducing workplace support initiatives, including additional working women’s hostels and crèches in government offices. These efforts are further strengthened by initiatives to expand market opportunities for women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs), promoting greater economic participation and empowerment. By enhancing support systems both at home and in the workplace, the government seeks to help women balance their professional and personal responsibilities more effectively.
These reforms are part of broader efforts to boost women’s workforce participation and bridge gender disparities. By implementing policies that prevent women from facing economic or professional setbacks due to personal circumstances, the government aims to create lasting positive change in the lives of countless women across the country.
The updates to pension rules and the introduction of supportive workplace policies mark significant strides toward a more equitable society, empowering women to achieve financial independence and stability.