Information and Public Relations Department, Chandigarh, Punjab, December 30: Punjab Social Security, Women and Child Development Minister Mrs. Aruna Chaudhary, on Wednesday, disclosed that the state government has so far disbursed a total financial assistance of Rs.1696 crore to more than 25 lakh beneficiaries.
Giving further information, Mrs. Chaudhary said that up till the November month of the financial year 2020-21, the Department of Social Security, Women and Child Development has disbursed Rs.1695.93 crore financial assistance to 25,54,473 old age pensioners, widows & destitute women, dependent children and Persons with Disabilities (PoWs).
"Chief Minister Capt. Amarinder Singh led state government was committed for the welfare of all sections of the society by providing timely pensions and other financial assistance", said the cabinet minister, adding that the officers of all rank and file of the department are working with dedication to address the problems of the pensioners.
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Mrs. Chaudhary further mentioned that 17,21,521 old age pensioners have been given a benefit of Rs.1141.67 crore from March to November 2020, while Rs.313.32 crore have been provided to 4,73,832 widows and destitute women beneficiaries under the financial assistance scheme.
The Cabinet Minister said that similarly, financial assistance of Rs.104.12 crore and Rs.136.82 crore was provided to 1,56,169 dependent children and 2,02,951 persons with disabilities beneficiaries, respectively, for the same period, so that they could lead a dignified life. The department was also providing financial assistance of Rs.8,000 per month to each acid attack victim, she added.
Mrs. Chaudhary appealed to the remaining eligible beneficiaries of the state to meet the social security officer of the concerned district and fill up their forms so that they can be provided with government financial assistance to avert any financial hardship.