The Government of Jammu and Kashmir has significantly upgraded its social welfare schemes, ensuring enhanced financial assistance for economically weaker sections. Among the key changes, the State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) has been revised, offering greater support to underprivileged girls, while pension schemes and food security programs have also been strengthened to uplift vulnerable families.
Increased Financial Assistance Under the State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) of J&K Social Welfare Schemes
The State Marriage Assistance Scheme (SMAS) now offers a one-time financial grant of Rs 75,000, up from the previous Rs 50,000, for eligible girls belonging to families holding Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration cards. This initiative aims to provide dignity and support to underprivileged women, ensuring financial relief at a crucial stage in their lives.
Direct Benefit Transfer for Transparency
To streamline the process and prevent delays, the Government has ensured that the financial assistance will be transferred directly to the beneficiary’s bank account through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system before the marriage. This measure eliminates middlemen and enhances transparency.
Expansion of Food Security Measures
In another welfare initiative, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has expanded food security provisions by distributing additional free food grains to AAY households with four or more members under the Public Distribution System (PDS). This move fulfills a commitment made in the Budget 2025-26, reinforcing the Government’s dedication to ensuring food security for marginalized communities.
Under this scheme, each eligible individual in large AAY families will receive up to 10 kg of food grains free of cost, significantly alleviating food shortages and improving nutrition levels.
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Enhanced Pension Schemes Under NSAP and ISSS
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has also revised pension structures under the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) and the Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS) to provide increased financial support to the elderly, widows, disabled individuals, and transgender persons.
New Pension Rates Effective from April 1, 2025:
- Individuals Below 60 Years: Rs 1,250 per month
- Seniors Aged 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500 per month
- Elderly (80 Years & Above): Rs 2,000 per month
Revised Pensions Under Indira Gandhi National Pension Schemes
- Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme (IGNOAPS):
- 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500 (previously Rs 1,000)
- 80+ Years: Rs 2,000 (previously Rs 1,000)
- Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme (IGNWPS):
- 40-59 Years: Rs 1,250 (previously Rs 1,000)
- 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500 (previously Rs 1,000)
- 80+ Years: Rs 2,000
- Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme (IGNDPS):
- 18-59 Years: Rs 1,250
- 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500
- 80+ Years: Rs 2,000
Enhanced UT-Funded Pensions Under ISSS
The Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS), funded by the Union Territory, has also been revised to provide higher pensions to various vulnerable groups:
- Old Age Pension:
- 55-60 Years (Females): Rs 1,250
- 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500
- 80+ Years: Rs 2,000
- Widow/Divorcee Pension:
- Below 60 Years: Rs 1,250
- 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500
- 80+ Years: Rs 2,000
- Disability Pension:
- Below 60 Years: Rs 1,250
- 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500
- 80+ Years: Rs 2,000
- Transgender Pension:
- Below 60 Years: Rs 1,250
- 60-79 Years: Rs 1,500
- 80+ Years: Rs 2,000
Women’s Empowerment Initiatives: Zero-Ticket Travel Initiative
As part of its commitment to gender equality and mobility, the Jammu and Kashmir Government has launched the Zero-Ticket Travel Initiative, a free Government bus service for women.
Boosting Women’s Independence
This initiative, flagged off by Chief Minister Omar Abdullah at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Convention Center (SKICC), aims to empower women by allowing them to travel freely without financial constraints.
Omar Abdullah stated, “This initiative will foster an environment where women can travel freely and safely, promoting gender equality and social inclusion.”
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Zero Stamp Duty on Property Transfers Within Blood Relations
The Jammu and Kashmir Government has also implemented Zero Stamp Duty on property transfers through Gift Deeds within blood relations, reducing financial burdens on families.
Applicable Relationships
Under Section 9(a) of the Stamp Act, 1977, Stamp Duty has been remitted for property transfers among parents, siblings, children, and grandparents. This policy came into effect on April 1, 2025, and aims to facilitate easier intergenerational wealth transfer without additional costs.
The latest welfare reforms by the Jammu and Kashmir Government reflect a strong commitment to social justice, economic relief, and empowerment. The enhanced marriage assistance, expanded food security, revised pension schemes, and gender-focused policies mark significant steps towards improving the quality of life for underprivileged sections of society.
With direct benefit transfers, zero stamp duty policies, and free travel schemes, the Government is ensuring equitable access to financial and social support systems, ultimately fostering a more inclusive and progressive Jammu and Kashmir.
