Thiruvananthapuram: In a major step towards strengthening women’s welfare and social security, the Kerala government has opened applications for its flagship ‘Sthree Suraksha’ (Women’s Safety) Scheme from today (Monday).
Under the scheme, eligible women will receive a monthly financial assistance of ₹1,000, aimed at providing basic income support to those not covered under any other social welfare or pension schemes. Applications can be submitted online through ksmart.lsgkerala.gov.in to the secretaries of local self-government institutions, the Local Self-Government Department’s Principal Director said.
The benefit is available to permanent residents of Kerala, including women and transgender women, aged between 35 and 60 years. Only applicants holding Antyodaya Anna Yojana (yellow) or Priority (pink) ration cards are eligible to apply.
However, the scheme excludes those already receiving widow, unmarried women’s or disability pensions, as well as service pensions, family pensions, or EPF pensions. Women employed—either on a permanent or contractual basis—in central or state government services, government-owned institutions, or universities are also not eligible.
With this initiative, the state government aims to extend targeted financial support to vulnerable sections of women, reinforcing Kerala’s commitment to inclusive welfare and social protection.
