If you’re a seasoned journalist in Haryana, aged 60 or above, you may qualify for the Haryana Media Person Pension Scheme, which provides financial support to veteran media professionals. This blog offers a step-by-step guide on the eligibility criteria, the application process, and the necessary documents to help you easily access the scheme.
Table of Contents
- Eligibility Criteria for the Pension Scheme
- Journalistic Experience
- Age Requirement
- Accreditation with the Haryana Government
- Aadhaar-Linked Bank Account
- No Criminal Record
- Receiving Other Pensions
- Annual Live Certificate Submission
- Discontinuation in Certain Circumstances
- How to Apply for the Haryana Media Person Pension Scheme
- Step-by-Step Guide to Registration and Application
- Documents Required for Application
- Why This Scheme Matters
- Importance of Financial Support for Veteran Journalists
- Conclusion
- Summary and Call to Action for Eligible Media Persons
Who Can Apply?
To ensure fair distribution of benefits, the Haryana Media Person Pension Scheme has laid down a set of eligibility conditions. If you meet the following criteria, you’re good to go!
1. Journalistic Experience
Applicants must have at least 20 years of experience in the field of journalism. Eligible media platforms include daily, evening, weekly, fortnightly, and monthly newspapers, news agencies, radio stations, and news channels. The scheme rewards commitment, so only those with long-standing experience can apply.
2. Age Requirement
The applicant must be over 60 years old at the time of application. This requirement aligns with the objective of supporting veteran journalists who are in their senior years.
3. Accreditation with the Haryana Government
Applicants must have been accredited with the Information, Public Relations & Languages Department, Haryana for at least five years. This ensures that only those actively involved in journalism in the state benefit from the scheme.
4. Aadhaar-Linked Bank Account
A savings account linked to your Aadhaar in a nationalized bank is mandatory. This will serve as the destination for pension deposits.
5. No Criminal Record
The scheme emphasizes ethical journalism, making it essential that no criminal cases are pending against the applicant.
6. Receiving Other Pensions? No Problem
Even if you receive a pension or honorarium from another state government or news organization, you’re still eligible. However, if the amount is less than ₹10,000 per month, your pension under this scheme will be adjusted accordingly.
7. Annual Live Certificate Submission
To keep receiving the pension, you need to submit a live certificate every January. This helps the government ensure that pensions reach the intended beneficiaries.
8. Discontinuation in Certain Circumstances
If any criminal case is registered against the beneficiary or if they engage in unethical journalistic practices, their pension will be discontinued.
How to Apply for the Haryana Media Person Pension Scheme
Applying for the Haryana Media Person Pension Scheme is simple and can be done entirely online. Follow the instructions below to ensure a smooth application process.
Step 1: Registration on Antyodaya-SARAL Portal
- Visit the official Antyodaya-SARAL Portal.
- Click on the New User/Register Here option.
- Enter your Name, Email ID, Mobile Number, and set a Password.
- Submit the details and receive your login ID via SMS.
Step 2: Log In and Apply
- Return to the Antyodaya-SARAL Portal and log in using your credentials.
- Once logged in, click on Apply for Services and then View All Available Services.
- In the search bar, type Media Person and select the Pension Application for Media Person link.
- Fill out the application form with the required information and submit it.
After successful verification, you’ll begin to receive your pension.
Documents Required for Application
To complete the application, you’ll need the following documents:
- A recent photograph
- Your signature
- A copy of your Aadhaar card
- A photograph of your spouse
- Your spouse’s signature
- Proof of Date of Birth
- Proof of at least 20 years of working experience (PDF of all certificates)
- Correspondence and Permanent Addresses
- A copy of your Bank Passbook
Why This Scheme Matters – Media Person Pension Scheme
The Haryana Media Person Pension Scheme is a vital initiative aimed at supporting veteran journalists who have dedicated their lives to the dissemination of news. After decades of service in a challenging profession, this pension provides a well-deserved financial cushion for senior journalists. The inclusion of journalists receiving pensions from other state governments and organizations further broadens the scheme’s reach, ensuring that no deserving veteran is left out.