The Garuda Scheme for Funeral Expenses (GS-FE) is a compassionate welfare initiative launched by the Andhra Pradesh Brahmin Welfare Corporation (ABC), an undertaking of the Government of Andhra Pradesh. This scheme reflects the government’s commitment to supporting economically weaker Brahmin families during moments of grief and financial distress. Losing a family member is emotionally devastating, and the associated funeral costs often add a heavy financial burden—especially for low-income households. Recognizing this challenge, the Government of Andhra Pradesh introduced the Garuda Scheme to provide immediate financial support to bereaved Brahmin families, helping them conduct the last rites of their loved ones with dignity and without financial pressure.
For the financial year 2020–21, the scheme offers a one-time grant of ₹10,000 to eligible families. This amount is provided to cover the essential costs associated with funeral ceremonies. The scheme follows a transparent online application process, ensuring timely assistance and minimizing hardships during a sensitive time.
Date of Implementation
- The Garuda Scheme for Funeral Expenses (GS-FE) was launched for the financial year 2020–21 by the Andhra Pradesh Brahmin Welfare Corporation.
- Families must apply within 45 days from the date of the death of the Brahmin family member.
Objectives of the Scheme
The Garuda GS-FE scheme has been designed with a clear set of goals that reflect the humanitarian values of the Andhra Pradesh government. The main objectives include:
- Providing Financial Relief:
To offer a one-time financial assistance of ₹10,000 to Brahmin families who have lost a family member, helping them meet funeral expenses. - Ensuring Dignified Last Rites:
To ensure that economically weaker Brahmin families can conduct the final rites of their loved ones respectfully and without financial strain. - Supporting Vulnerable Families:
To assist households with limited income, who often struggle to arrange funds immediately after a death in the family. - Maintaining Transparency and Trust:
To provide financial support through a transparent, technology-driven process with automatic verification from government databases. - Promoting Social Welfare:
To empower the economically weaker sections of the Brahmin community through focused welfare interventions.
Key Features of the Scheme
The Garuda Scheme for Funeral Expenses incorporates several important features that make it people-friendly, efficient, and transparent:
1. Implemented by Andhra Pradesh Brahmin Welfare Corporation (ABC)
ABC is a government body dedicated to the welfare of Brahmin families in the state.
2. Coverage Across the State
The scheme is applicable to Brahmin families living in all 13 districts of Andhra Pradesh.
3. Financial Assistance of ₹10,000
A one-time benefit is provided for funeral-related expenses.
4. Income Limit for Eligibility
The applicant’s annual family income must be ₹75,000 or below.
5. Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) System
The approved amount is directly deposited into the applicant’s bank account, ensuring quick and secure payment.
6. Single Application per Deceased Person
Only one close family member can apply for assistance.
7. Application Deadline
Applications must be submitted within 45 days of the date of death.
8. Verification Through Government Databases
Details are verified with:
- Praja Sadhikara Survey (PSS)
- MeeSeva records
- Civil Supplies database
9. Digital Processing
The entire application system is online, eliminating the need for physical submissions and ensuring accuracy and transparency.
Financial Assistance Amount
Under the Garuda Funeral Assistance Scheme:
- ₹10,000 is provided as one-time support.
- The assistance is meant exclusively for funeral expenses.
- The amount is transferred directly to the applicant’s bank account after verification.
This financial support helps families cover essential requirements such as transportation of the body, cremation or burial, religious rituals, materials, and other related expenditures.
Eligibility Criteria
To qualify for the Garuda Scheme for Funeral Expenses, the applicant must meet the following conditions:
1. Relationship with the Deceased
The applicant must be a close relative of the deceased Brahmin, such as:
- Spouse
- Son
- Daughter
- Parent
- Brother
- Grandson
2. Time Limit for Application
The application must be submitted within 45 days of the death.
3. Community and Residence
- The applicant must belong to the Brahmin community.
- The applicant must be a resident of Andhra Pradesh.
4. Income Limit
- Family income must be ₹75,000 or below per year.
5. No Duplicate Benefits
Applicants should not have received financial assistance from any other government department for the same purpose.
6. Self-Declaration
A self-declaration must be provided stating:
- The applicant is the legal heir.
- No other scheme’s benefits were availed for the funeral.
Reservation Policy
The Garuda Funeral Assistance Scheme is exclusively for Economically Weaker Section (EWS) Brahmin families.
- There are no gender, sub-caste, or regional reservations.
- All eligible candidates are treated equally based on the prescribed criteria.
Distribution of Financial Assistance
The distribution of the ₹10,000 assistance follows a structured and transparent process:
1. Mode of Payment
Funds are deposited using Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) into the applicant’s bank account.
2. Verification Process
Applicant details are cross-checked with:
- Praja Sadhikara Survey (PSS)
- MeeSeva data
- Civil Supplies Department
3. Disbursement Authority
The Andhra Pradesh Brahmin Welfare Corporation oversees the entire process.
4. Timeline
After successful document verification and approval, funds are released—usually within a few weeks.
Application Process (Step-by-Step)
Below is a clear step-by-step guide to applying for the Garuda Scheme:
Step 1: Prepare All Required Documents
Gather:
- Aadhaar cards (deceased + applicant)
- Brahmin caste certificate
- Income certificate
- Death certificate
- Bank passbook of applicant (SBI/Andhra Bank)
- Passport-size photo
- Self-declaration letter
Step 2: Online Registration
Access the official Andhra Pradesh Brahmin Welfare Corporation portal.
Navigate to the Garuda GS-FE scheme page and select “Apply Online”.
Step 3: Fill the Application Form
Enter:
- Personal details
- Relationship to the deceased
- Address
- Income details
- Bank details
- Death-related information
Double-check all information before proceeding.
Step 4: Upload Documents
Upload scanned copies (PDFs) of required documents.
Upload photo in JPEG format.
Step 5: Verification and Submission
Review the application, then click “Submit”.
The system automatically verifies your information with government databases.
Step 6: Receive Acknowledgment
Upon submission, an acknowledgment number is generated.
Keep it for tracking the application.
Step 7: Approval and Disbursement
Once verification is complete, authorities approve the application.
Funds are transferred directly to the applicant’s bank account.
Documents Required
Applicants must upload the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card of deceased
- Aadhaar Card of applicant
- Brahmin caste certificate
- Income certificate (under ₹75,000)
- Death certificate
- Bank passbook (applicant’s name only)
- Passport-size photograph
- Self-declaration/undertaking
Monitoring and Implementation
The Andhra Pradesh Brahmin Welfare Corporation is responsible for the effective implementation of the scheme. Online verification and database linkage ensure:
- Accuracy of applications
- Prevention of duplication
- Fast processing
- Transparency in fund distribution
Regular audits and digital monitoring ensure that benefits reach genuine beneficiaries without delay.
Impact of the Scheme
The Garuda Scheme for Funeral Expenses has made a significant positive impact on Brahmin families in Andhra Pradesh. Some key contributions include:
1. Emotional and Financial Relief
Families receive timely financial assistance during a vulnerable time.
2. Dignity in Last Rites
The scheme ensures that financial difficulties do not come in the way of conducting respectful funeral rituals.
3. Support to EWS Brahmin Families
Economically weaker households receive much-needed support without the burden of loans or high-interest borrowings.
4. Transparent Governance
The scheme has strengthened trust in public welfare programs through its transparent online application and verification system.
5. Statewide Inclusion
It Benefits families across all districts, ensuring equitable access.
