Applications rise for Women’s Security Pension in Kerala; ₹181 cr needed monthly, Malappuram tops

Alappuzha: The number of applicants for Kerala government’s Women’s Security Pension scheme is rising sharply. When the scheme was launched in February, there were 10.05 lakh applicants; this has now increased to 18.18 lakh. As a result, the government will need to allocate over ₹181 crore per month for pension distribution. In February, ₹100.5 crore was disbursed, and in March, ₹162.41 crore was distributed to 16.24 lakh beneficiaries. Distribution for April is set to begin soon.

As women aged 35 and above can apply for the pension at any time, the number of beneficiaries is expected to rise further. Malappuram district has the highest number of applicants at 2.55 lakh, of whom 2.4 lakh have already started receiving the pension. Thiruvananthapuram ranks second with 1.91 lakh applicants, and 1.69 lakh beneficiaries. Pathanamthitta has the lowest numbers, with 51,479 applicants and 44,851 approvals.

The remaining applications are under scrutiny. The government grants the pension once local bodies approve the applications. Women aged 35–60 from yellow and pink ration card categories are eligible. Those who move out of the state or secure employment will not be eligible. A change in ration card status will also disqualify applicants. If pensions are received fraudulently, the amount will be recovered with 18% interest.

Total welfare pension burden to cross ₹2,000 cr

The government currently allocates ₹1,050 crore per month for social security pensions, often relying on loans to meet the expense. The Women’s Security Pension is an additional financial burden. At present, the combined monthly requirement for both pensions exceeds ₹1,230 crore.

Both the LDF and UDF have promised in their manifestos to increase the social security pension from ₹2,000 to ₹3,000. If implemented, whichever front comes to power will have to mobilize over ₹2,000 crore every month to cover both pension schemes.