Haryana raises EWS income limit to Rs 8 lakh, expands quota and welfare benefits
Apart from change in income limit, all other existing instructions related to EWS category will remain unchanged
PTC Web Desk: In a major relief for economically weaker families, the Haryana government has increased the annual income limit for the Economically Weaker Sections (EWS) category from Rs 6 lakh to Rs 8 lakh. The decision is expected to bring a larger number of families under the ambit of EWS benefits, including reservation in jobs, education and access to welfare schemes.
The revised income ceiling has been implemented in line with the guidelines issued by the Central Government. A formal communication regarding the change has been issued by the Chief Secretary’s Office (CSO). According to the notification, the updated income criterion will be applicable to reservations in direct recruitment to civil posts and services in the state, as well as admissions to government and government-aided educational institutions.
Earlier, the income limit for the EWS category in Haryana was fixed at Rs 6 lakh per annum under orders issued on February 25, 2019. After reviewing the matter, the state government decided to revise the threshold to Rs 8 lakh annually. Officials clarified that apart from the change in income limit, all other existing instructions related to the EWS category will remain unchanged.
In October 2025, the state government rolled out a dedicated EWS housing policy to help families living in rented houses, slums or temporary accommodations achieve home ownership. Under this policy, 20 per cent of plots in licensed colonies and 15 per cent of flats in group housing societies are reserved for the EWS category, ensuring their inclusion in mainstream urban developments.
EWS beneficiaries in Haryana are entitled to several advantages, including 10 per cent reservation in government jobs and educational institutions, free education under the Right to Education (RTE) Act for Classes 1 to 3, financial assistance under the CHIRAG scheme for Classes 4 to 12, and access to housing schemes and subsidies.
The EWS certificate is generally valid for one year and must be renewed annually.