Articles by Rithika Vivek

Rithika is an intern at Okapi Research & Advisory, a group working on socio-ecological challenges faced by cities. She holds a master's degree in Development Studies from Azim Premji University, and is driven by questions on what it means to live in urban India. Her interests lie particularly in housing and the politics of infrastructure. You can reach her at rithika.vivek22_dev@apu.edu.in.

Resettlement woes: Changes in welfare schemes pose new hurdles for Perumbakkam pensioners

by February 26, 2025

Malar, a widowed pensioner resettled to Perumbakkam by the State government, had to reapply for her benefits after they were discontinued due to her address change. Despite gathering the necessary documents and reapplying for the National Social Assistance Pension Scheme (NSAP), her application was rejected because the eligibility criteria had changed since she first enrolled. The NSAP, implemented by the Revenue Department, provides monetary support to elderly, differently-abled, and widowed individuals below the poverty line. Funds are allocated at the taluk level, and recipients must reside within the same jurisdiction to access benefits. The Revenue Department ensures that pensions are…

Read more

How resettlement takes a toll on social pension beneficiaries in Chennai

by October 25, 2024

"I haven't got my pension for four years. I don’t know why," says Jayanti, a woman with disabilities resettled at the Perumbakkam housing board site. Jayanti, originally from Thousand Lights, was evicted in 2017. Shortly after relocation, she stopped receiving her pension. With limited livelihood opportunities due to her disability and the loss of her husband, she is entirely dependent on the ₹1,500 from the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP). The NSAP is a Central government-sponsored, non-contributory, income transfer scheme implemented by the Tamil Nadu Department of Revenue. It provides basic monetary support to the elderly, widowed, and persons with…

Read more