The government has taken an important step to provide financial security to women by making changes to family pension rules. Under the new policy, a divorced or separated daughter can now claim her deceased father’s pension directly, without waiting for a court order. This decision aims to remove unnecessary legal delays and ensure that women facing personal challenges get the financial support they deserve.
No Legal Hurdles for Pension Claims
Previously, a daughter who was divorced or separated had to wait for a court verdict to establish her eligibility for a family pension. Now, with the updated rules, she can apply for the pension directly without going through a lengthy legal process. Union Minister Jitendra Singh emphasized that this move is intended to provide immediate financial relief and remove bureaucratic barriers that have caused hardships for many women.
More Rights for Women Pensioners
The changes also allow a woman receiving a pension to nominate her children over her husband if she has filed for divorce or taken legal action under domestic violence or dowry harassment laws. This ensures that her pension benefits go to her children rather than a spouse who may no longer be part of her life.
Another major reform benefits childless widows. Under the new rules, a widow who remarries can continue to receive her deceased husband’s pension if her income falls below the minimum pension threshold. This change provides financial stability to widows who choose to remarry, ensuring they are not left without support.
Additional Government Support for Women
Beyond pension reforms, the government has introduced several policies to support women in the workforce. Some of the key initiatives include:
- Flexible Child Care Leave: Single mothers working in government jobs can take up to two years of leave in phases, including travel abroad with their children.
- Extended Maternity Benefits: Women are now entitled to paid leave in cases of miscarriage or stillbirth, ensuring they receive proper recovery time.
- Workplace Support: More working women’s hostels and crèches are being set up in government offices to help women balance work and family responsibilities.
- Economic Empowerment: Women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) are getting better market access, allowing more women to achieve financial independence.
A Step Toward Gender Equality
These reforms reflect the government’s ongoing efforts to increase women’s participation in the workforce and reduce financial dependence. By making pension rules more flexible and introducing supportive workplace policies, the government is ensuring that women are not economically disadvantaged due to their marital status or personal circumstances.
This step is expected to have a widespread impact, benefiting thousands of women across the country. With better financial security, more workplace support, and fewer legal barriers, women can now focus on their careers, families, and personal growth without unnecessary financial stress.