Who is eligible for the weaver and artisan death benefit scheme?

The family/nominee of a weaver or artisan registered with the West Bengal Handloom Weavers' Co-operative Society or the Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) Department who has passed away is eligible.

How much death benefit is provided to weavers and artisans?

The death benefit amount varies based on the category and registration type, typically ranging from ₹50,000 to ₹2 lakh, paid as a one-time ex-gratia to the registered nominee.

How to claim the death benefit for weavers and artisans?

The nominee must file a claim at the district MSME or Handloom office within the stipulated period, submitting the death certificate, registration ID, nominee ID proof, and bank account details.

What documents are needed to claim the weaver death benefit?

Required documents include the beneficiary's death certificate, weaver/artisan registration certificate, nominee's Aadhaar card, bank passbook, relationship proof (ration card/marriage certificate), and a duly signed claim form.

Is there a time limit to claim the death benefit for weavers?

Yes, the nominee should ideally file the claim within 1 year of the death. Claims filed beyond this period may require special sanction from the department. Early filing is recommended to avoid delays.

West Bengal Government Scheme – MSME & Artisan Welfare

Scheme of Death Benefit for Weavers and Artisans of West Bengal – তাঁতি ও কারিগরদের মৃত্যু সুবিধা প্রকল্প

Death benefit for registered weavers and artisans of West Bengal | Memo 999/MSMET 2024

Launched March 2024 – vide Memo No. 999/MSMET dated 07/03/2024

Weavers & Artisans⚰️ Death Benefit Memo 999/2024 Family Support

About Scheme of Death Benefit for Weavers and Artisans of West Bengal

Scheme of Death Benefit for Weavers and Artisans provides death benefit financial assistance to the families of registered weavers and artisans in West Bengal who pass away. Notified vide Memo No. 999/MSMET-18011(11)/12/2023 dated 07/03/2024, the scheme ensures that the dependents of weavers and artisans who have contributed to West Bengal’s rich craft heritage are not left without financial support after the craftsperson’s death.

Death

One-time death benefit to registered weaver family

DBT

Amount credited directly to nominee’s bank account

2024

Scheme notified in March 2024 via official memo

MSME

Administered by WB MSME & Textiles Department

Benefits & Features

Death benefit for families of registered weavers and artisans
Financial support to nominee/dependents after craftsperson’s death
Direct bank transfer to nominee account — no bureaucratic delay
Scheme governed by MSME & Textiles Department of West Bengal
Provides dignity and security to families of traditional craftspersons
Complements other artisan welfare schemes of WB government

⚠️ Important: The weaver/artisan must be registered with the relevant WB government board or MSME Department. Unregistered craftspersons are not eligible. Register at your nearest MSME office.

How to Apply – 2026

Ensure the weaver/artisan is registered with the WB MSME Department

In case of death, nominee/family member contacts District MSME Office

Submit death certificate, nominee Aadhaar, and registration details

MSME Department verifies registration and processes death benefit claim

Death benefit is credited to nominee’s bank account after approval

Death Certificate of weaver/artisan Aadhaar Card (nominee) Weaver/Artisan Registration Certificate Bank Passbook Copy (nominee) Photo of nominee

Official Portal & Status Check

Official Portalmsme.wb.gov.in

Step 1Visit the official portal listed above

Step 2Enter your application/registration ID or Aadhaar

Step 3Check application and payment/benefit status online

The Death Benefit Scheme for Weavers and Artisans recognises the invaluable contribution of West Bengal’s traditional craft community to the state’s culture and economy. By providing financial security to bereaved families, it ensures that the sacrifice and skill of craftspersons are honoured even after their passing.

Related Schemes You May Find Useful

View All WB Government Schemes →