The EWS (Economically Weaker Section) Certificate in West Bengal is an important document that aims to provide reservation benefits to individuals belonging to economically disadvantaged sections of society. Introduced as per the guidelines of the Government of India, the EWS certificate enables individuals from economically weaker backgrounds to avail various reservations and benefits in education, employment, and government schemes.
How To Get EWS Certificate In West Bengal?
The certificate is issued to those whose family income falls below the prescribed threshold set by the government. It serves as proof of eligibility for reservation in educational institutions, job opportunities, and other welfare programs. The EWS certificate plays a crucial role in ensuring equal opportunities and inclusivity in the state of West Bengal, empowering individuals from economically weaker backgrounds to thrive and excel in their chosen endeavors.
| Certificate Name | Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) |
| Category | UR Category Candidates |
| Total Reservation | 10% |
| Application Mode | Offline |
| Total Time Taken | 2 to 3 weeks |
| Eligibility Of Annual Family Income | Less than Rs. 8 Lakh |
| Certificate Validity | One Financial Year (till 31st March) |
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West Bengal EWS Certificate Eligibility Criteria
To be eligible for the EWS (Economically Weaker Section) certificate in West Bengal, candidates must meet the following criteria. Firstly, individuals who are not covered under the reservation schemes for SC, ST, and OBC can apply for the EWS certificate. Secondly, the gross annual family income should be below ₹8.00 lakh from all sources such as salary, agriculture, business, and profession for the financial year preceding the year of application.
Thirdly, the applicant’s family should not own or possess assets such as 5 acres of agricultural land or more, a residential flat of 1000 sq. ft or more, a residential plot of 100 sq. yards or more in notified municipalities, or a residential plot of 200 sq. yards or more in areas other than the notified municipalities. It is important to note that if the family owns property in different locations, it will be considered collectively in determining the EWS status. Lastly, the definition of “family” includes the person seeking the reservation benefit, their parents, siblings below the age of 18, as well as their spouse and children below the age of 18.
Income and Asset Certificate Issuing Authority
To apply for the EWS (Economically Weaker Section) certificate in West Bengal, candidates are required to obtain an Income and Asset Certificate issued by specific authorities. The certificate must be collected in the prescribed format as provided in Annexure-C.
The authorized authorities who can issue this certificate are the District Magistrate or Additional District Magistrate, the Sub-Divisional Officer, and the DWO (District Welfare Officer) in Kolkata for the KMC (Kolkata Municipal Corporation) Area. These designated officials have the power to verify the income and assets of the applicant’s family and provide the necessary certification.
EWS Certificate Application Process West Bengal
The application process for obtaining the EWS (Economically Weaker Section) Certificate in West Bengal is conducted offline. Candidates are required to download the Application Form (Annexure-A) from the designated source and complete it with accurate personal details, as well as income and asset information. Along with the filled application form, candidates must attach several supporting documents, all of which should be self-attested.
These documents include PAN Card of self or parents, EPIC or Citizenship Certificate of self or parents, Admit Card of Madhyamik or Birth Certificate issued by a competent authority or equivalent examination, Pay Slip of self or parents (for salaried persons), Income Certificate from the prescribed authorities, Residential Certificate, RoR (Record of Rights) or Parcha or Registered Deed, Chairman of Municipalities or Councillor of Municipal Corporations or Certificate supporting the sub-caste from the Gram Panchayat Pradhan and a self-declaration in the prescribed format regarding family income, assets, and sub-caste.
Once all the necessary documents are attached, candidates can submit their completed EWS Certificate Application Form to the respective authorities depending on the area of residence: Block Development Officer for rural areas, Sub-Divisional Officer for municipalities, or DWO (District Welfare Officer) in Kolkata for KMC (Kolkata Municipal Corporation) areas.
Enquiry and Verification Process
Upon submission of the EWS (Economically Weaker Section) Application Form in West Bengal, the concerned authority will initiate an enquiry and verification process. The applicant will be notified to appear before the authorities within two weeks from the date of receipt of the application. During this hearing, the applicant is required to provide proof for verification of family income and sub caste.
The verification process follows a similar procedure to that of issuing a Caste Certificate. For Panchayat and Municipal areas, the verification of immovable assets such as agricultural land, residential flats, or plots will be conducted by the Inspector BCW (Backward Classes Welfare), while in KMC (Kolkata Municipal Corporation) areas, the verification will be done by the BL (Block Land) & LRO (Land Revenue Officer) or Chief Valuer or Surveyor. This verification process ensures the authenticity and accuracy of the information provided by the applicant, particularly regarding their income and assets, and sub-caste.
Validity of EWS Certificate
The validity of an EWS (Economically Weaker Section) Certificate issued in West Bengal is limited to one financial year. This means that the certificate remains valid until the 31st of March of the corresponding financial year. For instance, if an individual receives their EWS Certificate in May 2023, it will remain valid until the 31st of March 2024.
After this date, the certificate expires, and the individual will need to apply for its renewal. It is essential to keep track of the validity period of the EWS Certificate and initiate the renewal process in a timely manner to ensure continued eligibility for reservation benefits and other entitlements associated with the certificate. By renewing the certificate, individuals can maintain their status as beneficiaries of the EWS category and avail the privileges and opportunities provided under this scheme.
FAQ
What is the reservation criteria for EWS Category?
The EWS Category candidates will get 10% seat reservation on every Government Institution, Job, and other fields.
How long will it take to get new EWS Certificate?
Usually, it takes 15 to 20 days to get EWS Certificate in West Bengal.
Can SC/ST/OBC candidates apply for EWS Certificate?
No. Any reserved category candidates cannot apply for this certificate.
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