Sakeena Itoo interacts with representatives of Confideration of Physically Challenged Organisations

• Assures stronger support system for PWDs in J&K

JAMMU: Minister for Social Welfare, Education, Health and Medical Education, Sakeena Itoo, today held an extensive interaction with representatives of the Confederation of Physically Challenged Organisations and took stock of various issues and grievances of Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) across Jammu and Kashmir.

The interaction was held with an aim to strengthen welfare measures, improve accessibility and ensure that development reaches every person, including those living with disabilities across Jammu and Kashmir.

The meeting was attended by Commissioner Secretary, Social Welfare department (SWD), Sarmad Hafeez; Director Social Welfare Kashmir, Mohammad Akbar Wani; Mission Director POSHAN/ICDS, Sajad Hussain Ganai; Director Social Welfare Jammu, Ranjeet Singh; Director Finance SWD, other senior officers of SWD, members of Confederation of Physically Challenged Organisations and other concerned officers, either in person or through video conferencing.

During the interaction, the Minister emphasised that inclusive governance remains core priority of the Government. “The rights, dignity and welfare of PWDs are non-negotiable. Our policies are being continuously reviewed to ensure equal opportunities and access for all,” she stated.

Highlighting several ongoing initiatives, Minister Sakeena informed the participants that the Social Welfare department is actively working towards welfare of PWDs and outreach programmes are being enhanced to ensure welfare schemes reach beneficiaries in remote and underserved areas. “Focus is being laid on improving accessibility for PWDs in public infrastructure, educational institutions and government offices in line with inclusive development goals”, she said.

During the meeting, the Minister issued several key directions aimed at strengthening support mechanisms for PWDs. She asked officials to explore providing Antyodaya Anna Yojana (AAY) ration cards to disabled individuals without parental support. She also directed the department to examine the feasibility of constructing dedicated hostel facilities for Persons with Disabilities in both Jammu and Srinagar.

In a significant decision, the Minister instructed the department to appoint a Nodal Officer at the administrative level to serve as a single-point contact for addressing grievances and concerns of Persons with Disabilities.

Assuring stakeholders that their voices would shape future policies, the Minister said genuine suggestions received during consultations would be incorporated wherever feasible. She stressed that continuous dialogue between the Government and stakeholder organisations is essential for designing responsive and need-based welfare programmes.

Appreciating the role of such organisations, the Minister acknowledged their contribution in advocating for disability rights and bridging the gap between the Government and beneficiaries. She called for collaborative efforts to build an inclusive society where no individual is left behind.

Representatives of the Confederation expressed gratitude to the Minister for facilitating open dialogue and welcomed the Government’s proactive approach towards addressing issues faced by Persons with Disabilities.