In India there are over 34 Million widows i.e 8% of the total female population. 50% of such widows are above the age of 50. In terms of prevalence of widowhood, India ranks highest in the world; of existing widows 64% are aged 60 and above, out of which 80% are aged 70 and above. In contrast, only 2.5% of Indian men are widowers. At the age of 60 years and above, 93% and 68% of widows are illiterate in rural and urban area respectively. Deprivations causing mortality for widows are 85% higher amongst widows than married women. About 25% of widows are working outside home (1% as professionals, 5% in clerical jobs and housekeeping). 20% are working as agricultural labours. About 25% of them are 60 years and above who are not in a position to work.
MTRDT arranged widow pensions to many widows from government and also distributed tailoring machines and availed microfinance under government scheme for starting petty business. We are planning to start vocational training centres