Excelsior Correspondent
JAMMU, Jan 20: Former Vice Chairman of the J&K SC, ST, BC Development Corporation, Balbir Ram Rattan, today met Director, Social Welfare Department, Ranjit Singh, and raised the issue of early clearance of pension cases, particularly for elderly persons and widows belonging to poor and marginalized families across Jammu and Kashmir.
During the meeting, Balbir Ram Rattan shared the growing concerns of beneficiaries who are facing undue delays in the processing and disbursement of pension benefits under various Government welfare schemes. He emphasized that these pensions are not merely financial assistance but a crucial support system for thousands of vulnerable citizens who have no other steady source of income.
He said that pensions act as a lifeline for senior citizens and widows, many of whom live alone and suffer from age-related health issues. Even minor delays, he added, adversely affect their ability to purchase medicines, food and other basic necessities. He urged the Director to prioritize pending cases and ensure that deserving beneficiaries receive timely financial support without procedural hurdles.
Balbir Ram Rattan also stressed the need for adopting a more humane, sensitive and people-friendly approach at district-level Social Welfare Department. He called for courteous behaviour, proper guidance and active assistance to applicants, especially elderly persons and widows, who often face difficulties in completing documentation and understanding procedural requirements.
Responding to the concerns, Director Social Welfare, Ranjit Singh, assured that the Department is making sincere and continuous efforts to ensure that deserving beneficiaries receive welfare benefits without unnecessary delay.
Follow our WhatsApp channel
