BHADARWAH, Aug 21: The Social Welfare Department in collaboration with the Health Department organised an awareness camp for elderly citizens at Panchayat Ghar in Drudhu on the World Senior Citizens Day to sensitise them about their legal rights, welfare schemes and preventive healthcare.
The event aimed at promoting the dignity and well being of the elderly witnessed a large scale participation from the local community alongside departmental officials.
Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO) Bhaderwah, Shahnawaz Ahmad detailed various government welfare schemes and pensions available for the elderly. He stressed the legal protections under the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007 urging senior citizens to remain aware of their statutory rights and grievance redressal mechanisms.
“Ensuring that our elders live with dignity and security is a top priority. Our aim is to make welfare mechanisms accessible directly at the grassroots level so that no eligible beneficiary is left out,” Ahmad said.
Addressing the gathering as the chief guest, former Sarpanch Ashok Kumar Sharma lauded the administration for bringing administrative outreach directly to village doorsteps.
“Taking welfare and awareness initiatives to rural areas provides our elders a direct platform to resolve their issues without running from pillar to post,” Sharma said appreciating the department’s responsive approach.
Resource person from the Health Department, Dr. Sandeep conducted an interactive session on active and healthy ageing. He briefed participants on preventive health measures, routine screenings, balanced nutrition and managing age related health conditions.
The programme concluded with an open house interactive session where officials addressed queries regarding social security pensions, application processes and healthcare benefits.