Hey everyone, I’ve been reading up on the National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) under NSAP, which provides ₹20,000 as a one-time grant to BPL families who lose their primary breadwinner. Can someone explain how it actually works on the ground? Like, what are the eligibility criteria, and how smooth or difficult is it for families to get this benefit?
Also, how effective has NFBS been in helping families during tough times? Are there any success stories or common issues like delays, corruption, or lack of awareness that people face? Any thoughts on how this scheme could be improved would be great too. Let’s discuss it!
The National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS) is a vital welfare initiative under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP), managed by the Ministry of Rural Development (MoRD), Government of India. This scheme aims to provide financial support to families living Below the Poverty Line (BPL) who have lost their primary breadwinner. With a lump sum grant of ₹20,000, NFBS seeks to alleviate immediate financial distress and help these families regain stability during challenging times.
Key Features of the National Family Benefit Scheme (NFBS)
Here’s what you need to know about NFBS:
- Financial Assistance: A one-time grant of ₹20,000 is provided to the surviving family member(s).
- Age Criteria: The deceased breadwinner must have been between 18 and 60 years old at the time of death.
- Cause of Death: The scheme covers all causes of death, ensuring no family is left unsupported.
- Beneficiary: The benefit is disbursed to the next head of the household or the person assuming responsibility as the new breadwinner.
Who Is Eligible for NFBS?
To qualify for the ₹20,000 financial assistance under NFBS, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Indian Citizenship: The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
- BPL Household: The family must belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.
- Primary Breadwinner’s Death: The financial aid is applicable only if the primary earning member of the family has passed away.
- Age of Deceased: The deceased individual must have been aged between 18 and 60 years at the time of death.
- Next Head of Household: The applicant should be the surviving family member who will take over as the new breadwinner.
What Benefits Does NFBS Provide?
The NFBS offers the following key benefits:
- One-Time Financial Assistance: A lump sum amount of ₹20,000 is provided to the surviving family member(s).
- No Cause Restrictions: The scheme covers all causes of death, ensuring inclusivity.
- Universal Support for Eligible Families: Every BPL family meeting the eligibility criteria can avail of this benefit.
How to Apply for NFBS
You can apply for the National Family Benefit Scheme either online or offline. Here’s how:
Offline Application Process
- Download and Print the Application Form:
- Annexure-III (Page 47) from the NSAP Guidelines .
- Forms are also available free of cost at the District Social Welfare Office (DSWO) or Tehsil Social Welfare Office (TSWO).
- Fill in the Application Form: Provide accurate details as required.
- Attach Required Documents: Include proof of identity, address, age, death certificate, and BPL card.
- Submit the Application: Submit the completed form and documents to the designated officer at your local TSWO or DSWO office.
- Verification and Approval: The Block Level Sanctioning Committee reviews the application before forwarding it for final approval at the district level.
Online Application Process
- Apply via the UMANG App or visit the official NSAP portal .
Documents Required for NFBS
To ensure a smooth application process, gather the following documents:
For the Deceased Breadwinner:
- Death Certificate
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar, PAN, Voter ID, etc.)
- Proof of Address (Ration Card, Electricity Bill, etc.)
- BPL Card / Ration Card
- Family ID / Member ID
For the Family Member Receiving Assistance:
- Proof of Identity (Aadhaar, Voter ID, PAN, etc.)
- Proof of Address
- Proof of Age
- Family ID / Member ID
- Aadhaar-Linked Bank Account / Post Office Account Details
- Passport-Size Photograph
The NFBS serves as a crucial lifeline for low-income families who have lost their primary breadwinner. It provides immediate financial relief, helping families cope with unexpected hardships. If you meet the eligibility criteria, applying for NFBS can make a significant difference in stabilizing your household’s financial situation.
Application Deadlines: Applications are accepted throughout the year.
Need Assistance? Visit your local Social Welfare Office (DSWO/TSWO) or apply online via the UMANG App.