The Karigar Pension Scheme 2026 by the Ministry of Textiles provides ₹8,000 per month to senior artisans who have won National or State awards and are aged 60 years or above with a monthly income below ₹3,000. Applications are accepted offline at the nearest Textile Commissioner or Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) office. You can also check for updates at handicrafts.gov.in.
What is the Karigar Pension Scheme?
The Karigar Pension Scheme (also called the Artisan Pension Scheme) is a central government initiative under the Ministry of Textiles, Government of India. It was designed to provide financial security to elderly and economically vulnerable artisans who have made significant contributions to India's traditional crafts, handloom, handicraft, and textile sectors.
Beneficiaries receive ₹8,000 per month directly into their Aadhaar-linked bank accounts via DBT. Some states also provide additional top-up pension amounts on top of the central benefit.
Eligibility for Karigar Pension Scheme 2026
- Must be a National Award or State Award winner in the field of textiles, handicrafts, handloom, or Khadi
- Age must be 60 years or above at the time of application
- Monthly income must be below ₹3,000 from all sources
- Applicable categories: textile artisans, handloom weavers, handicraft workers, Khadi workers
- Must be a permanent resident of India with valid identity documents
Benefits Under Karigar Pension Scheme
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Monthly Pension | ₹8,000 per month |
| Payment Mode | Direct Bank Transfer (DBT) to Aadhaar-linked account |
| State Top-Up | Some states offer additional pension on top of central benefit |
| Ministry | Ministry of Textiles, Government of India |
Documents Required for Karigar Pension Application
- National or State Award Certificate — original or certified copy
- Aadhaar Card — linked to your active mobile number
- Age Proof — birth certificate, Aadhaar, or school leaving certificate
- Income Certificate — issued by a competent authority confirming monthly income below ₹3,000
- Bank Passbook — first page showing account number, IFSC code, and branch (account must be Aadhaar-seeded)
- Passport-size Photographs — 2 recent copies
- Residence Proof — ration card, voter ID, or electricity bill
How to Apply for Karigar Pension Scheme
The application process is primarily offline. Follow these steps:
- Collect the application form from your nearest Textile Commissioner Office or Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) Office
- Fill in the form with personal details, award information, income details, and bank account information
- Attach all required documents (self-attested copies)
- Submit the completed application in person at the office
- Collect the acknowledgement receipt for tracking
You can also check the official portal for online application updates: handicrafts.gov.in or contact the Ministry of Textiles helpdesk directly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for Karigar Pension Scheme 2026?
National or State award-winning artisans aged 60 years or above with a monthly income below ₹3,000 are eligible. The scheme covers textile workers, handloom weavers, handicraft artisans, and Khadi workers.
How much pension is provided under Karigar Pension Scheme?
The Ministry of Textiles provides ₹8,000 per month, credited directly to the beneficiary's Aadhaar-linked bank account via DBT. Some state governments also provide an additional top-up amount.
How to apply for Karigar Pension Scheme 2026?
Apply offline at the nearest Textile Commissioner Office or Development Commissioner (Handicrafts) Office. Required documents include the award certificate, Aadhaar card, age proof, income certificate, and bank passbook. You can also check handicrafts.gov.in for online application options.
Last Updated: April 10, 2026 | Author: SK Jabedul Haque | Source: handicrafts.gov.in