Nuns to come under the ambit of Kerala’s social welfare net

The Cabinet on Wednesday devised a special scheme to bring women living under the aegis of religious denominations, including Christian nuns, under the ambit of the State’s social welfare net. 

The decision assumes significance against the backdrop of reports that some nuns, who fell out with the Church, were living in penury in accommodation provided by the clergy. The cabinet has also brought women who live in madhoms, convents, and ashrams in the State under the scheme. 

Unmarried women over 50 years who do not receive other benefits, including pensions, would benefit from the scheme. They would be eligible for ration benefits, including cards, as well as social welfare pensions.