Srinagar, June 29 (KNS): Jammu and Kashmir Commissioner/Secretary, Social Welfare Department, Sarmad Hafeez on Monday said society owes a great deal to its elderly population and called upon the younger generation to serve and respect senior citizens with compassion and dedication.
Addressing a function organised by Ahata Waqar, a day-care and recreation centre for senior citizens in Srinagar, Hafeez said the government has earmarked Rs 10,600 crore in the current financial year for pensions to senior citizens, widows and persons with disabilities, besides scholarships for students belonging to below-poverty-line (BPL) families.
He said another Rs 540 crore has been allocated under the Ladli Beti scheme for the welfare of girl children, adding that all benefits are being transferred directly to beneficiaries through the Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) system.
Hafeez also assured support from the Social Welfare Department to strengthen facilities at Ahata Waqar after the organisation submitted a memorandum seeking additional infrastructure, including physiotherapy equipment.
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The event also honoured noted ophthalmologist and founder of Gaash Welfare Foundation, Dr Shugufta Rather, for her contribution to medical education and social service.
Praising her humanitarian work, Hafeez said Dr Rather had made significant contributions by providing free eye care and cataract surgeries to underserved communities across Kashmir.
Speaking on the occasion, Dr Rather stressed the importance of social commitment, consistency and hard work in serving society. She said her foundation has benefited thousands of people through free medical treatment, while also working to promote education, youth empowerment and academic excellence in the Valley.
Several speakers highlighted the need for greater community participation and support from non-governmental organisations to improve the welfare of senior citizens and other vulnerable sections of society.(KNS).