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West BengalSocial Welfare
Literary and Cultural Pension Scheme
Managed by: Department of Information and Cultural Affairs (Directorate of Culture)
About the Scheme
Offers monthly pension relief of Rs. 1,000 to traditional, retired, or destitute writers, poets, painters, and stage artists in West Bengal.
Welfare Benefits & Assistance
- •Monthly pension of Rs. 1,000 credited to bank account to support sustenance during old age
Eligibility Criteria
State ResidencyPermanent resident of West Bengal
Age Limits60 years or above (or disabled)
Family Income CapDestitute status / low personal income
Social Class / CategoryAll categories
Additional Prerequisites
- Must have active contributions to the field of literature, music, drama, fine arts, or folk arts in West Bengal for at least 15 years
Documents Required for Application
Tip: Keep scanned color copies of these documents ready before starting your application.
How to Apply (Step-by-Step Guide)
1
Apply through the state cultural affairs portal
1
Submit application form along with credentials at the District Information & Cultural Officer (DICO) office
Who Should Apply?
- ✓Traditional authors, poets, musicians, and stage actors aged 60+ in WB
Who Should NOT Apply?
- ✗Amateurs without public portfolios
- ✗Active government employees
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Do I need to submit proof of publication for literary pension?
Yes, copies of published books, journals, or award certificates are required as proof of contribution.
Related Welfare Schemes
Old Age Pension
Who Can Apply:
BPL seniors aged 60+ not covered by Jai Bangla
Key Benefits:
•Monthly pension of Rs. 1,000 via DBT
•No beneficiary contribution required
Updated: July 2026
Lokprasar Prakalpo
Who Can Apply:
Traditional folk musicians, dancers, and theater performers in West Bengal
Key Benefits:
•Monthly retention fee of Rs. 1,000 for active folk artists (aged 18-60)
•Additional payment of Rs. 1,000 per day for performing at government campaign campaigns
Updated: July 2026
Jai Bangla Pension
Who Can Apply:
SC/ST residents aged 60+ in West Bengal
Key Benefits:
•Monthly pension of Rs. 1,000 credited directly to bank account
•Covers both Taposili Bandhu (SC) and Jai Johar (ST) sub-schemes
Updated: July 2026
Manabik Pension
Who Can Apply:
Persons with 40%+ disability in WB
Key Benefits:
•Monthly pension of Rs. 1,000 via DBT
•No age restriction for disabled persons
Updated: July 2026
Scheme Details
State / CentralWest Bengal
AuthorityDirectorate of Culture
SubcategoryArtists Pension
Launch Date2012
Target Beneficiarygeneral, senior-citizens
Official Helpline033-2214-5500