SRINAGAR: Minister for Agriculture Production, Rural Development and Panchayati Raj, Cooperatives and Elections, Javid Ahmad Dar, on Wednesday chaired a review meeting to assess the implementation and progress of various social welfare schemes in his constituency.
The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare, Sarmad Hafeez, senior officers of the Social Welfare Department and other concerned officials, who presented a detailed overview of the achievements and status of welfare schemes being implemented for the benefit of vulnerable sections of society.
During the meeting, the Minister reviewed the coverage of beneficiaries under various pension schemes, particularly the Old Age Pension Scheme, and sought details regarding eligible individuals who are yet to be covered under the programme.
He directed the concerned officers to ensure that all deserving beneficiaries are identified and provided the benefits in a transparent and time-bound manner.
Emphasising the need for greater public awareness, Javid Ahmad Dar instructed the department to organise awareness programmes and special outreach camps across the constituency to facilitate the registration and inclusion of senior citizens, widows and specially-abled persons under different government welfare schemes.
The Minister also stressed the importance of providing assistive devices, including tricycles and other mobility aids, to eligible beneficiaries in accordance with prescribed guidelines. He directed officials to expedite the distribution process to ensure timely support for persons with disabilities.
Appreciating the achievements of the Social Welfare Department, Javid Dar observed that the department plays a crucial role in building an inclusive and equitable society. He noted that through its various welfare initiatives, the department is making significant contributions towards the upliftment and empowerment of vulnerable, disadvantaged and marginalized sections of the population.
The Minister called upon officers to work with dedication and commitment to ensure that the benefits of government welfare schemes reach every deserving household, thereby strengthening social security and improving the quality of life of the people.
Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare, Sarmad Hafeez, assured the Minister that all necessary measures would be taken to further improve the implementation of welfare schemes and expand their reach among eligible beneficiaries.