SRINAGAR, AUGUST 25 — Chief Minister Omar Abdullah on Sunday underscored that the welfare of all sections of society is a constitutional duty of the government, not an act of charity or generosity. He was speaking at a one-day conference titled “Empowering Communities—Welfare for All” held at the Sher-i-Kashmir International Conference Centre (SKICC), organised by the Social Welfare Department of Jammu and Kashmir.
In his address, the Chief Minister emphasised that social welfare policies must be designed to uplift the most vulnerable and disadvantaged sections, rather than serving only the privileged few. He called for a shift in mindset—from viewing welfare as benevolence to recognising it as a right of every citizen, particularly those facing systemic socio-economic hardships.
Omar Abdullah said that the government’s role is not merely to deliver services to the already empowered but to bridge the gap for those deprived of education, healthcare, and economic opportunities. He noted that the true test of governance lies in reaching remote rural populations and marginalised communities. Welfare schemes, he reiterated, are not favours extended by the state but the rightful entitlements of people who endure the greatest challenges.
Reflecting on his government’s approach to social justice, the Chief Minister said his cabinet, especially Minister for Social Welfare SakinaItoo, worked with dedication to ensure that the most pressing needs were prioritised. While acknowledging that systemic transformation cannot happen overnight, he said sincere and consistent efforts—no matter how small—can collectively create lasting impact.
He highlighted that the government’s social welfare strategy marked a significant departure from charity-based models. A rights-based approach had been adopted to ensure transparency, accountability, and equitable delivery of benefits. Citing examples of recent welfare initiatives, the Chief Minister referred to enhanced marriage assistance for economically weaker girls, increased pension coverage for over a million beneficiaries, and free public transport for women to promote mobility and safety.
He also detailed efforts to strengthen child welfare services, including the upgradation of 500 Anganwadi Centres into Saksham Centres and BalVidyalayas, aimed at integrating child development, nutrition, and education under one umbrella. Furthermore, he mentioned the establishment of Shakti Sadans and VatsalyaSadans to provide institutional care and protection to women and children in need.
Addressing the challenges faced in implementing such schemes, the Chief Minister acknowledged financial constraints, particularly in schemes involving the distribution of scooters or assistive devices. He called upon large businesses to contribute through Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) initiatives, noting that such support could enhance the reach and efficiency of government welfare programmes.
He also drew attention to the lack of awareness in remote areas, which he described as one of the biggest obstacles to equitable welfare delivery. It was, he said, unacceptable for citizens in one district to benefit from schemes while those in another remained unaware of them. Stressing that governance must be inclusive and uniform, he declared that the benefits of development should reach every region and every community of Jammu and Kashmir.
Omar Abdullah cited the transformative impact of education loans and scholarships, sharing stories of students from modest backgrounds who went on to become doctors and professionals. He said such outcomes demonstrate the power of well-designed welfare schemes to change lives and uplift entire communities. That, he said, is the ultimate responsibility of any government.
During the event, the Chief Minister inaugurated an exhibition showcasing the Social Welfare Department’s initiatives and felicitated individuals who had made remarkable contributions in their fields. He also handed over prosthetic aids, scooters, motorised cycle keys, and sanction letters to beneficiaries, including women and persons with disabilities.
In her statement, Minister for Social Welfare SakinaItoo praised the leadership of Omar Abdullah and said the government had paid special attention to the needs of the elderly, widows, and women in distress. She recalled that during both his tenures, significant enhancements were made to pension amounts and women-centric welfare schemes were prioritised to promote self-reliance. She also highlighted the urgent need for awareness campaigns to ensure that government schemes reach every deserving individual, particularly in far-flung areas.
The event was attended by Advisor to the Chief Minister NasirAslamWani, Commissioner Secretary of the Social Welfare Department SarmadHafeez, various Members of the Legislative Assembly from Srinagar and other districts who joined via video conference, and senior officers of the Social Welfare Department.
