Srinagar: Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment Ramdas Athawale on Sunday highlighted various central welfare schemes and said his ministry was ready to consider proposals from the Jammu and Kashmir government for old-age homes and other support facilities through the appropriate channels.
Addressing a press conference in Srinagar, Athawale stressed the implementation of provisions for persons with disabilities, including reservation in education and government employment.
Referring to the Sugamya Bharat Abhiyaan, he called for improved accessibility in public buildings and facilities to enable persons with disabilities to access public spaces and services independently.
The minister also highlighted the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, which seeks to expand access to banking services, and the Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana, which provides collateral-free loans to eligible beneficiaries for small businesses and self-employment.
He referred to the Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana, Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (Rural and Urban), Pradhan Mantri Jan Arogya Yojana and UJALA Yojana, covering clean cooking fuel, housing, healthcare and energy-efficient lighting.
Athawale also underscored the role of skill development, entrepreneurship and support for micro, small and medium enterprises in expanding livelihood opportunities.
He called for effective implementation of welfare schemes and stressed that eligible beneficiaries should receive the intended benefits.
