J&K admin underlines elderly welfare as highest priority: LG Sinha

Srinagar, October 25: In a heartwarming and compassionate gesture highlighting the timeless significance of elderly care, Lieutenant Governor Manoj Sinha inaugurated the ‘Pensioners Sammelan’ in Srinagar on Wednesday.
This event underscores the Jammu & Kashmir Administration’s unwavering commitment to ensuring the well-being and happiness of senior citizens.
Expressing heartfelt gratitude to the elderly attendees and emphasising the invaluable nature of the blessings they bestow, the LG assured them that the administration is dedicated to ensuring that the elderly lead happy and healthy lives.
“It is our ancient tradition, civilizational duty, and ‘Sanskar’ to care for the elderly, provide them with social security, and extend support to vulnerable sections,” he added.
Under the Integrated Social Security Scheme, the District Administration in Srinagar achieved an exceptional 100 percent saturation, disbursing pensions up to the month of September. LG Sinha commended their efforts, recognizing their commitment to assisting those in need. In Srinagar alone, over 44,000 elderly, widows, and divorcees have been covered, and LG Sinha highlighted the potential for further enhancements to the benefits.
Encouraging District Officials throughout the Union Territory to replicate these best practices, LG Sinha emphasized the importance of implementing technological interventions to expedite the saturation of Social Security Schemes. He underscored that establishing an effective social security net for all citizens, particularly the urban poor and destitute, will strengthen society and enhance living conditions.
At the Pensioners Sammelan, the Lieutenant Governor pledged to provide all necessary support and assistance to widow and divorcee pensioners, as well as individuals with disabilities, in their self-employment endeavours. He also highlighted the administration’s commitment to extending universal health insurance coverage and ensuring a higher quality of life for all residents.
“Jammu & Kashmir is unique in the country for setting the eligible age for widow pensions at 18 years, reflecting the administration’s progressive approach. The rules for the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act have been notified, and a helpline has been established to ensure their proper care,” the LG said.
In another positive development, Panchayats across Jammu & Kashmir have established Senior Citizen Clubs. Furthermore, Senior Citizen Homes are now available in 13 districts, with plans to expand to the remaining districts this year, ensuring that elders have access to a supportive community.
During the event, LG Sinha personally distributed sanction letters and medical aids to beneficiaries, demonstrating the government’s dedication to improving access to various social welfare schemes.
Among others present included ADGP Kashmir; Vijay Kumar, Divisional Commissioner Kashmir; Vijay Kumar Bidhuri;Athar Amir Khan, Commissioner SMC; Mohammad Aijaz, Deputy Commissioner Srinagar, along with senior officers and beneficiaries.