Himachal Pradesh Government has taken number of initiatives for the upliftment of weaker sections especially SC, ST, OBC and minority communities so that their participation could be ensured in the development of the State by providing them every possible opportunity. The State Social Welfare spokesman said in a press communique here today that State has constituted Gaddi, Gujar, Gorkha and Labana Welfare Boards for socio-economic development of these communities.
The Government has increased the annual income limit from 20,000 to 35,000 so that more eligible persons could be benefited through welfare schemes. Social Security Pension has become a source of regular financial support to elders, widows and disabled persons who do not have dependable financial support. Social Security Pension to eligible persons in this category has been increased from Rs. 450 to Rs. 650.
As many as 3,87,000 eligible persons are receiving Social Security Pension in the State with the budget provision of 35768.47 lacs for the year 2016-17. Persons at the age of 80 and above and persons with 70 percent disability are being provided Rs. 1200 per month as social security pension. The Government is providing a grant of Rs. 75,000 for construction of house to persons belonging to SC, ST & OBC category who are having land in their names. A target of construction of 3167 houses has been fixed with provision of 2368 lacs in the scheme.
‘Mukhya Mantri Aadarsh Gram Yojna’ is being implemented in SC dominated villages to provide road connectivity in such villages. Two villages in each assembly constituency are selected with an SC population of 40 per cent or more, a strength of 200 persons for inclusion under the scheme. The selected village is given Rs. 10 lacs for construction of roads or link roads to improve connectivity in such villages. Rs. 1165 lacs are being spent under the scheme in the State.
