Correspondent
TURA, June 11 – Meghalaya Chief Minister Dr Mukul Sangma today launched the Chief Minister’s Special Assistance Scheme at a function at Asanang near here. This the first time such a scheme is being launched in the State. The special scheme aims at providing special assistance in the form of monthly monetary allowances to the old and infirm, differently abled and widows.The scheme is being implemented by the Child Development Project Officers (CDPOs) in every block and will enable the beneficiaries to live a life of dignity without depending on others.
Delivering the inaugural address, Dr Sangma expressed a sense of happiness and satisfaction that the government is reaching out to every section of the society, even the marginalised and the differently abled. He informed that fund allocation of Rs 10 crores has been released to the Department of Social Welfare for the implementation of the programme in the first phase. Dr Sangma further informed that the total number of beneficiaries in the State is still yet to be ascertained as probable applicants were still under the process of applying to avail the scheme. He urged concerned CDPO’s to invite beneficiaries to avail the scheme and informed that the due date for beneficiaries to apply for the scheme had been extended for another thirty days.
Social Welfare Minister, J A Lyngdoh addressing the gathering gave his assurance that he would direct concerned social welfare officers to implement the scheme effectively throughout the State.
Later, Dr Sangma and Lyngdoh distributed pension cards and cheques to beneficiaries.
