Union Minister of State for Social Justice and Empowerment, Ramdas Athawale, recently visited Odisha to assess the state government’s welfare programs for vulnerable groups. During his trip, he conducted a comprehensive review meeting with officials from various departments, including Social Security, Empowerment of Persons with Disabilities, and others. The Minister focused on schemes for Scheduled Castes, Other Backward Classes, and applauded the state’s decision to increase reservations for different categories.
Athawale commended the financial aid provided to victims of social discrimination and atrocities, noting the growing awareness among Scheduled Castes and Tribes about their rights. He also highlighted the Central Government’s initiative offering incentives for inter-caste marriages, benefiting nearly 4,958 couples in recent years. The Minister delved into discussions on welfare initiatives for persons with disabilities, emphasizing the importance of early identification and intervention for their holistic development.
State officials shared that over 90,000 persons with disabilities in Odisha are receiving pensions under Central Government schemes. The meeting also addressed topics like special schools for disabled children, reservation policies, and rehabilitation measures. Athawale stressed the significance of regular health screenings and timely interventions for children with disabilities to ensure their overall well-being.
