Uttar Pradesh provides a monthly pension of Rs 1,000 to eligible widows and destitute women. A proposed increase to Rs 1,500 is under consideration but has not yet been approved.
Eligible beneficiaries currently receive Rs 1,000 per month. The amount is transferred directly into their bank accounts.
New Delhi,Oct 22, 2026 16:32 IST
For women who have lost their husbands and have no steady source of income, a monthly pension can provide essential financial support. The Uttar Pradesh government runs the Niradhar (Nirashrit) Mahila Pension scheme, commonly known as the Vidhwa Pension, to support eligible widows and destitute women.
How much pension do women receive?
Eligible beneficiaries currently receive Rs 1,000 per month. The amount is transferred directly into their bank accounts.
Applicants must be permanent residents of Uttar Pradesh, and their annual income, including family income from all sources, must not exceed Rs 2 lakh. They must also not be receiving a pension under any other state or central government scheme.
How to apply for the pension
Applications can be submitted online through the Uttar Pradesh government's social security pension portal. Applicants typically need an income certificate, Aadhaar details and bank account information. Widows must also provide their husband's death certificate.
Is the government planning to increase the pension?
Media reports in October 2026 said the Uttar Pradesh government was considering raising the monthly pension from Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,500 for beneficiaries under the old-age, destitute women's and disability pension schemes.
The reports put the combined number of beneficiaries across these three categories at more than 1.21 crore. However, the proposed increase is subject to Cabinet approval and the issuance of implementation orders. Until an official order is issued, Rs 1,000 remains the current monthly pension amount.
Why the pension matters
For women with limited income or no earning member in the household, a regular pension can help meet basic expenses. The scheme provides direct financial assistance to eligible women who may otherwise have limited means of supporting themselves.
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