Financial Assistance To Ex-Convicts

Financial Assistance to Ex-Convicts (पूर्व बंदियों के लिए वित्तीय सहायता)

The “Financial Assistance to Ex-Convicts” scheme, initiated by the Department of Social Justice in Kerala, aims to support individuals who have recently been released from prison. This initiative is designed to assist those struggling economically to reintegrate into society by providing them with the necessary financial means to establish self-employment opportunities.

Overview of the Scheme

Launched by the Kerala Government’s Department of Social Justice, the “Financial Assistance to Ex-Convicts” program serves as a vital resource for individuals re-entering society after incarceration. Recognizing that effective social rehabilitation is crucial for both the individual and society, this scheme provides a one-time financial grant to help ex-convicts start small enterprises or engage in self-employment activities.

Historically, the approach to dealing with offenders emphasized confinement as a means of protection. However, it has become evident that the best way to safeguard society is through rehabilitation and personalized support. The Kerala Government’s initiative focuses on empowering ex-convicts to develop sustainable livelihoods, thus fostering their reintegration into the community.

Benefits of the Scheme

• Financial Assistance: Eligible beneficiaries can receive a maximum of ₹15,000 as one-time financial support.

Eligibility Requirements

• The applicant must be a resident and native of Kerala.
• The applicant should be an ex-convict, having recently been released from jail due to poor economic conditions.
• The applicant must belong to the Below Poverty Line (BPL) category.

Application Procedure

Online Application Process

To apply online, follow these steps:

1. Visit the SUNEETHI – Online Service Application Portal.
2. On the homepage, click on “One-time Registration”.
3. Enter personal details such as your Name, Email ID, and Mobile Number, then click on ‘Register’.
4. Input the verification code sent to your mobile and click on ‘Verify’.
5. Complete the profile creation form with all required information and click on ‘Register’.

Login/Application Process

1. Once registration is done, return to the SUNEETHI – Online Service Application Portal and select “Citizen Login”.
2. Enter your username (Mobile Number) and Password, then click “Sign in”.
3. Update your profile with Personal Information, Contact Details, Identity Cards, and Bank Information by clicking the ‘Edit’ button.
4. After updating your profile, schemes will be visible on the left side of the screen.
5. Select the relevant scheme and click on the “Apply Now” button.
6. Fill out the application form with all necessary details and click on the ‘Submit’ button.

Offline Application Process

To apply offline, adhere to the following steps:

1. Visit the official website of the Department of Social Justice, Government of Kerala to download the application form. (The form can also be obtained from the District Probation Officer).
2. Complete the application form thoroughly.
3. Submit the filled application form along with relevant documents to the designated Probation Officer.

Official Source

For more information, please visit myScheme.gov.in.