Bhaderwah, Feb 06: The Department of Social Welfare, under the able guidance of the Deputy Commissioner Doda, the Additional Deputy Commissioner Bhaderwah, and the District Social Welfare Officer Doda, organised a comprehensive Awareness Camp for Senior Citizens at Bhaderwah with the objective of sensitising elderly citizens about various welfare schemes and legal provisions aimed at ensuring their protection, dignity, and overall wellbeing.
The programme was organised under the supervision of Tehsil Social Welfare Officer (TSWO), Bhaderwah, Sh. Shahnawaz Ahmad, who welcomed the participants and highlighted the significance of ensuring dignity, care and social security for senior citizens. While addressing the gathering, the TSWO elaborated on various welfare schemes being implemented by the Social Welfare Department for the benefit of elderly citizens, including pension schemes and other supportive initiatives.
He emphasised that senior citizens are the pillars of society and their wisdom, experience and guidance serve as a torchlight for the younger generation. He further urged the participants to spread awareness among other eligible beneficiaries so that maximum deserving elderly persons can avail benefits of government schemes.
Resource person invited from the District Court Bhaderwah, Advocate Isha Hitaishi, delivered a detailed awareness session on the Maintenance and Welfare of Parents and Senior Citizens Act, 2007. She sensitised the participants about their legal rights, provisions for maintenance, and the responsibility of children and relatives towards elderly parents. The participants were also informed about the procedure for seeking legal assistance under the Act.
The event was also attended by Zonal Physical Education Officer (ZPEO) Bhaderwah, Shri Vijay Kotwal, who interacted with the senior citizens and appreciated the initiative of the Social Welfare Department. He stressed the need for organising such awareness programmes regularly to ensure that senior citizens remain informed, active and socially connected.
A large number of senior citizens from Bhaderwah and adjoining areas participated in the camp and appreciated the efforts of the department in organising such informative programmes. The programme was also attended by Advocates and staff members from the District Legal Services Authority Bhaderwah.
The Social Welfare Department reiterated its commitment towards safeguarding the rights and welfare of senior citizens and assured continued efforts to enhance outreach and awareness regarding various welfare schemes.
