ANANTNAG: Minister for Social Welfare, Education, Health and Medical Education Sakeena Itoo on Saturday inaugurated four newly constructed Social Welfare Department buildings at Nanil in Anantnag district, including facilities for an old age home and child care institutions.
According to officials, the infrastructure has been developed at an estimated cost of ₹11.27 crore. Director Social Welfare Mohammad Akbar Khan informed the Minister that an additional ₹1.10 crore has been earmarked for allied infrastructure, including roads, parks and other facilities for the institutions.
Addressing the gathering, Itoo said the facilities had been established to provide care, shelter and support to vulnerable sections of society. She said the government was focused on strengthening welfare services and infrastructure to ensure that benefits reach intended beneficiaries.
The Minister said the PLASH facility has been created to support orphaned children lacking adequate family support and livelihood resources, while the old age home is intended for destitute elderly persons without shelter or family care.
She emphasised the role of the Social Welfare Department in supporting people facing social insecurity, disabilities and other vulnerabilities, and said such institutions should provide a safe and dignified environment for residents.
During her interaction with children residing at the facility, Itoo assured them that their demands, including a gymnasium, recreational park, improved road connectivity and ambulance services, would be taken up on priority.
On the occasion, MLA Anantnag East Reyaz Ahmad Khan highlighted several developmental demands, including upgradation of the Nursing College at Aukura, widening of the Aukura-Aung road, establishment of a science laboratory at Higher Secondary School Nanil, introduction of smart classrooms and strengthening of healthcare infrastructure and staffing at Nanil hospital.
The Minister said the issues raised would be examined by the concerned departments for appropriate action.
The function was attended by Director General Integrated Child Development Services (ICDS) Sajad Ahmad Ganie, Deputy Director Social Welfare, Chief Medical Officer Anantnag, Chief Education Officer Anantnag, Block Medical Officer Mattan and other officials.
