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Big Move From BCCI Sees ₹1 Lakh Grant For Widows Of Deceased Indian Cricketers

Soumyajit Dutta

BCCI makes massive move along with ICA [Source: @susovan_panda/X.com]BCCI makes massive move along with ICA [Source: @susovan_panda/X.com]

In a significant move to support the families of former players, the Indian Cricketers’ Association (ICA) has launched a new welfare scheme for the widows of its deceased members. The initiative will provide a one-time financial grant of ₹1 lakh to eligible beneficiaries, with an estimated 50 individuals set to benefit in its first phase.

ICA's Scheme to Complement Existing Pensions and Benefits

The scheme, approved during the ICA's second board meeting of the financial year on August 25, is a standalone initiative separate from existing benefits. It specifically aims to aid those not covered under other arrangements, such as the pensions already provided to spouses of former international Test cricketers.

In an official release while addressing the scheme, the board stated, “The initiative reflects ICA's continuing commitment to honour the contributions of cricketers and to extend meaningful support to their families in times of need."

The policy will be subject to periodic review and may be adjusted in the future to align with any new pension provisions for widows and widowers introduced by the BCCI, which officially recognises the ICA.

ICA’s Wider Mission to Support Former Cricketers’ Families

This new effort is part of the association's broader mission to safeguard its members' welfare. Since its founding in 2019, the ICA, which represents over 1,750 former Indian cricketers, has rolled out multiple support programs. These include the Senior Member Recognition Programme, which provides ₹1 lakh to veteran players over 60 without pensions, and a group health insurance plan covering up to ₹2.5 lakh for members.

Additional initiatives include an annual health check-up program that has benefited over 2,200 individuals and an emergency medical fund that has provided urgent financial aid to 77 members. The introduction of this grant for widows reinforces the ICA's enduring commitment to caring for the cricketing community long after their playing days are over.