Divorced, separated daughters can now claim deceased father's pension directly
What's the story
The government has announced new rules to make pension regulations more favorable for women, especially divorced/separated ones.
The changes now let the women claim their deceased father's pension directly, without waiting for a court ruling.
The reform seeks to provide immediate financial relief and remove bureaucratic obstacles that could potentially delay the process.
Union Minister Jitendra Singh said, "We have taken decisive steps to ensure women are not left struggling for their rightful pension."
New regulations
Women pensioners can prioritize children for family pension
The amended rules also benefit woman pensioners who have applied for divorce or initiated proceedings under laws protecting women from domestic violence or dowry harassment.
They can now give priority to their children over their husbands in terms of family pensions.
The move is aimed at ensuring the financial security and independence of women in difficult circumstances.
Childless widows can also remarry without the risk of losing their deceased husband's pension, provided their income remains below the minimum pension threshold.
Additional measures
DoPT's broader initiatives to support women
Apart from pension reforms, the Department of Personnel and Training (DoPT) has launched several initiatives to assist women in government service.
Flexible childcare leave policies allow single mothers to take up to two years of phased leave, including travel abroad with their children.
DoPT has also extended maternity benefits by offering paid leave for miscarriages and stillbirths.