Somobyathi is a social welfare scheme by the Government of West Bengal that provides immediate financial assistance to bereaved family members for performing the last rites of a deceased relative.
As of present date, the scheme continues to provide a one-time grant to families who are in financial distress at the time of a death.
Key Benefits
- Grant Amount: A one-time financial assistance of ₹2,000.
- Immediate Relief: The amount is intended to cover the costs of cremation or burial and associated funeral rituals.
Eligibility Criteria
- Economic Status: The scheme is targeted at families living below the poverty line (BPL) or those who are in extreme financial hardship.
- Residency: The deceased must have been a permanent resident of West Bengal.
- Location of Death: The grant is applicable if the death occurs within the state.
How to Apply
The process is designed to be swift due to the nature of the requirement:
- Application Point: The primary applicant (immediate next of kin) should apply at the local Gram Panchayat (for rural areas) or the Municipal Office (for urban areas).
- Timing: Application should be made as soon as possible following the death to receive immediate funds.
Required Documents
- Death Certificate (issued by the hospital, crematorium, or local authority).
- Aadhaar Card or Voter ID of the applicant.
- Ration Card (BPL/AAY/PHH preferred) to prove economic status.
- Self-declaration of financial necessity.