SRINAGAR, Aug 26: Addressing a one-day event on “Empowering Communities-Welfare for All”, organised by Social Welfare Department, at the SKICC on Monday, the Chief Minister stressed that welfare initiatives must be designed to reach the most disadvantaged sections of society, instead of benefitting only the privileged few.
He underlined the importance of inclusive growth, saying that the government’s policies are aimed at empowering communities and ensuring equitable development.
Reaffirming his government’s commitment to inclusive development, the Chief Minister said that while it is easy to deliver schemes to those who already enjoy resources, education and good health, the true test of governance lies in reaching the poor, the vulnerable, and those in far-flung rural areas.
Social welfare schemes are neither favours nor acts of generosity. They are the rightful due of citizens who face greater hardships than others. Any government that ignores them or focuses only on privileged sections fails in its duty,” Omar Abdullah said.
The Chief Minister highlighted several flagship initiatives of his government, including enhanced marriage assistance for girls belonging to Economically Weaker Sections (EWS), an increase in pensions for over 10 lakh beneficiaries, and the provision of free public transport facilities for women to promote mobility and safety.
He also spelled out about the upgradation of 500 Anganwadi Centres into Saksham Centres and Bal Vidyalayas, designed to provide integrated child development, education, and nutrition services. In addition, new facilities such as Shakti Sadans and Vatsalya Sadans established to extend institutional care and protection to women and children in need.
Omar Abdullah also called for greater corporate participation in welfare efforts. Referring to schemes like distribution of scooters and assistive devices, he admitted that financial limitations sometimes delay benefits but stressed that Corporate Social Responsibility funds from big businesses could complement government efforts.
The government belongs to all districts and all communities of J&K. Welfare benefits must reach every corner of the state,” the CM asserted.
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