Government eases pension rules for divorced, separated women

The government has made important changes to pension rules that benefit divorced and separated daughters. They can now claim their deceased father's pension directly, improving their financial security and independence. Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced that these changes mean daughters do not need to wait for a court ruling to access their father’s pension. This reform is part of a larger plan to reduce bureaucratic obstacles and provide quicker financial relief to women facing difficult situations. Under the new rules, a woman can choose to nominate her children for the pension instead of her husband if she has initiated divorce proceedings or is facing domestic violence issues. Additionally, a childless widow can remarry while still receiving her deceased husband’s pension, as long as her income meets certain criteria. These updates aim to give women more control over their finances, regardless of their marital status. The government is also introducing various initiatives to support women in government jobs, such as flexible child care leave and extended maternity benefits. These new policies are designed to help women balance their work and family life. The government is also increasing support by providing more hostels and childcare facilities for working women and improving access to markets for women-led Self-Help Groups. Overall, these reforms are part of a broader effort to encourage women to participate more fully in the workforce and reduce gender inequalities. The changes to pension rules and workplace policies are steps toward creating a fairer society where women can succeed without relying on others for financial support.