Easy Pension Claim Process Under New Rules for Divorced Daughters

The Central Government has announced several changes to encourage women’s empowerment. One of the reforms includes allowing divorced or separated women to receive the pension of their deceased father.

The Department of Personnel & Training (DoPT) has introduced some policy changes to enhance the financial security of women. The changes being implemented by DoPT will improve the lives of women, particularly those working in government jobs. One major change enables a pensioner woman to nominate her children for a family pension instead of her husband in case she is having a divorce or filing cases under the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act or the Dowry Prohibition Act. Let us take a look at a few initiatives announced by the government.

Ensuring Financial Security for Women Through Pensions

The government has made major changes in pension rules to boost the financial security of women. Now a widow who does not have any children can remarry and continue to receive the pension of her deceased husband or family pension but the condition is that her income should remain below the minimum pension limit.

Additionally, a divorced or separated daughter can now claim her deceased father’s pension without having to go through a long and complicated legal process. Earlier, if a divorced or separated daughter wanted to claim her parents’ pension, she had to wait until the court officially finalized her divorce, leaving her without financial support. This new rule makes it easier and faster for her to receive financial support.

Encouraging women’s participation in governance

Union minister Singh highlighted the importance of being involved in governing and decision-making in India as the country is working towards its ‘Viksit Bharat’ goal. The government has introduced various initiatives, such as setting up hostels and crèches in government offices to support working women. The government is also working to expand market access for women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs).

Supportive workplace for women

DoPT has initiated to create a more supportive workplace for women. One of the most important changes is the enhanced flexibility in Child Care Leave (CCL). Single mothers can now take up to two years of Child Care Leave in a phased manner, which means that they don’t have to use it all at once and can plan it as per their needs. Besides this, They also have the added benefit of travelling abroad with their children during the leave period.

Some maternity benefits have also been enhanced, which include paid leave for women who have a miscarriage or stillbirth. This allows them to get enough time to recover and provides financial support.