Jammu (NVI): In a noble move to expand the social security in Jammu and Kashmir, Lt Governor G C Murmu today approved 1.30 lakh new pension cases of old age, widows and physically challenged persons.
The pension cases were approved as a part of the Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS) and National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) of the Government of India.
The decision was taken in a high level meeting chaired by the J&K administrator to review the issue of pending pension cases in the Union Territory, being administered through the Social Welfare Department, a statement said.
Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare Manoj Kumar Dwivedi informed that at present 6,12,950 beneficiaries are deriving benefit from the ISSS and NSAP, whereas, more than three lakh more cases are pending with the Department.
Bringing 1.30 lakh persons in the ambit of these social security pension schemes will take the total number of beneficiaries to 7,42,950, he said.
The Lt Governor directed the Social Welfare Department to ensure 100 percent coverage of beneficiaries by the next financial year and to take up the matter with the Government of India for the purpose.
Murmu asked the Social Welfare Department to direct its field functionaries to identify the poorest of the poor beneficiaries and process their cases on a priority basis to ensure their coverage under these schemes.
He also emphasised on inclusion of Panchayat representatives in the process of identification of beneficiaries so that all deserving persons avail Rs 1,000 monthly pension without any encumbrances.
The Lt Governor also directed that pension amount should be transferred through Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT), after due authentication, into the bank accounts of the beneficiaries for greater transparency.
