Principal Secretary, Social Welfare, Anil Kumar Singh, today chaired an introductory-cum-review meeting at the Civil Secretariat, here.

The Principal Secretary undertook a comprehensive, sector-wise review of the implementation of all Centrally Sponsored and Union Territory-level schemes, including flagship programmes. The officers presented detailed updates on the status of various schemes through PowerPoint Presentations.

Anil Kumar emphasized the need for robust implementation of all schemes and stressed ensuring wide coverage of eligible beneficiaries. He specifically reviewed the physical and financial progress on the department across the Union Territory.

Key schemes reviewed during the meeting included Mission Poshan, Saksham Anganwadi 2.0, Mission Vatsalya, Mission Shakti, Integrated Social Security Scheme (ISSS), Ladli Beti, Beti Bachao Beti Padhao, Marriage Assistance Schemes, and various welfare initiatives for tribal communities, women, children, the elderly and persons with disabilities.

The Principal Secretary directed for timely disposal of pensions, loan assistance and scholarships to the intended beneficiaries. He also called for closely monitoring the recruitment process to ensure timely filling of vacancies critical to the effective implementation of programmes.

Anil Kumar stressed the need for seamless functioning of Saksham Anganwadi Centres, Vatsalya Sadans, shelter homes, juvenile homes, Child Care Institutions (CCIs), One Stop Centres for Women and other welfare facilities across the UT. He asked for accelerating the completion of infrastructure development and expedite work on all ongoing departmental projects in all the districts.

The meeting further discussed measures to strengthen child development, improve nutrition and support the welfare of marginalized sections of society, including specially-abled individuals, widows, senior citizens and members of reserved categories.

The Principal also took stock of the effectiveness of legal framework aimed at promoting social justice and protecting the vulnerable groups. Key legislations reviewed included the Juvenile Justice Act, 2015, the Protection of Women from Domestic Violence Act, 2005, the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the Transgender Persons (Protection of Rights) Act, 2019.

The meeting was attended by the DG Women and Child Development, Secretary Social Welfare Department, Directors of Social Welfare Kashmir and Jammu, Director Finance, MD Mission Shakti, Commissioner for Disabilities and other senior officers of the department.