Harischandra Yojana (Harischandra Sahayata Yojana) is a welfare scheme run by states like Odisha, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat.
The scheme aims to provide financial assistance for funeral/cremation expenses of poor families or registered workers, thereby ensuring the performance of last rites with dignity.
Benefits of Harischandra Yojana
- Financial Assistance: ₹2,000 – ₹5,000 (varies by state) to cover cremation/burial expenses.
- Immediate Relief: Funds are kept at Gram Panchayats/Municipalities for quick access.
- Support for Poor & Destitute Families: Helps those unable to afford funeral costs.
- Worker Welfare: In some states, benefits extend to registered workers’ families if the worker dies (even on duty).
- Additional Services: Hearse/ambulance facilities in certain regions (e.g., Odisha).
- Dignity in Last Rites: Ensures families can perform funerals without financial stress.
Documents Required for Harischandra Yojana
| Document | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Death Certificate | Proof of death for which assistance is claimed |
| Applicant’s Identity Proof (Aadhaar, Voter ID, etc.) | To verify the applicant’s identity |
| Address Proof (Ration Card, Aadhaar, etc.) | To confirm the applicant’s residence |
| Income Certificate | To establish income eligibility as per scheme norms |
| Bank Account Details (Passbook copy) | For direct transfer of financial assistance |
| Application Form (state-specific) | Official application to enroll in the scheme |
| Worker Registration Proof (if applicable) | Required for worker-related schemes (e.g., UP) |
| Passport-size Photographs | For identification and record keeping |
How to Apply for Harischandra Yojana
You can apply for Harischandra Yojana online via the state portal or offline at local offices by submitting the form with the required documents.
Online Method
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Visit the official state portal (e.g., CMRF Odisha, eSamajKalyan Gujarat, Labour Dept. UP).
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Go to the Harischandra Yojana section.
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Register/log in with your Aadhaar or mobile number.
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Fill out the application form with details of the deceased and applicant.
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Upload required documents (death certificate, proof of income, ID, etc.).
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Submit the application and note the reference/acknowledgement number.
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Track status online through the portal.
Offline Method
Step 1. Collect the Harischandra Yojana Application Form from:
- Gram Panchayat office/Municipality office (Odisha).
- Labour Welfare Office (UP workers).
- District Social Welfare Office (Gujarat).
Step 2. Fill in all required details.
Step 3. Attach photocopies of supporting documents.
Step 4. Submit the form to the respective authority.
Step 5. Assistance is usually provided immediately or within a short time through local revolving funds.
How to Check Beneficiary Status
To check the Harischandra Yojana beneficiary status, you need to visit the official portal of your state (such as the Odisha CMRF website, the Gujarat eSamajKalyan portal, or the Uttar Pradesh Labour Department site).
Once on the portal, look for the section titled “Beneficiary Status” or “Track Application.”
Enter your application ID, Aadhaar number, or registered mobile number, and then click on submit.
The system will display the current status of your application, which may show as pending, approved, rejected with reasons, or payment released.
This process is nearly identical across all states, with the only difference being the official portal links.
State-wise Comparison Table
| State | Scheme Name | Benefit | Apply Link | Status Check | Helpline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Odisha | Harischandra Sahayata Yojana (CMRF) | ₹2,000 (Rural) / ₹3,000 (Urban) + hearse service | cmrfodisha.gov.in | Check HSY Status | 0674-2536660 |
| Uttar Pradesh | Raja Harischandra Shramik Antyeshti Yojana | Funeral aid for registered workers’ families | uplabour.gov.in | Labour Dept. portal (via login) | 1800-1800-544 |
| Gujarat | Satyavadi Raja Harishchandra Yojana | ~₹5,000 for funeral rites | esamajkalyan.gujarat.gov.in | eSamajKalyan portal (via login) | 079-23258688 |
Latest Updates (2025 Onwards)
- The scheme continues to provide financial support for funeral/cremation expenses, generally ranging between ₹2,000 and ₹5,000, depending on the state.
- Governments Are Ensuring Faster Disbursal of Funds through Revolving Funds Maintained at Local Bodies (Gram Panchayats, Municipalities, and Welfare Offices).
- Some states have introduced or expanded hearse/ambulance services to help families transport deceased persons with dignity.
- The schemes have already benefited lakhs of families, with crores of rupees disbursed as relief assistance.
- Focus remains on ensuring that poor, destitute, and registered workers’ families do not face financial stress in performing last rites.
Conclusion
The Harischandra Yojana is an important social welfare initiative aimed at supporting poor, destitute, and registered worker families during difficult times.
It provides not only financial assistance for funeral or cremation expenses but also, in some states, additional services such as hearse and ambulance facilities. The scheme ensures that no family is denied the dignity of performing last rites due to financial hardship.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who Is Eligible for Harischandra Yojana Financial Assistance?
Poor and destitute families in the state, registered workers’ families in some states, and residents who can provide proof of death and income eligibility.
What Is the Typical Amount of Financial Aid Provided Under the Scheme?
Assistance generally ranges from ₹2,000 to ₹5,000 depending on the state and rural or urban location.
How Quickly Is the Assistance Disbursed After Applying?
Funds Are Usually Provided Immediately or Within a Short Time from Local Revolving Funds Maintained by Gram Panchayats or Municipalities.
Are There Any Additional Services Provided Apart from Financial Aid?
Some states offer hearse/ambulance services to assist families in transporting the deceased with dignity.
Can Registered Workers’ Families Receive Benefits if the Worker Dies During Duty?
Yes, in certain states like Uttar Pradesh, the scheme covers families of workers who die while working.
