Jharkhand government has announced the formation of a board dedicated to the welfare of transgender individuals. Additionally, special committees will be established in each district under the leadership of the respective district magistrates to address their specific needs. The state government has recognized transgender individuals as Other Backward Classes (OBC-II) and is developing a comprehensive plan to safeguard their interests.
Kripa Nand Jha, the Secretary of the Department of Women, Child Development, and Social Security, shed light on the ongoing initiatives under social security. He revealed that nine schemes are currently operational under the Social Security umbrella, with three being centrally sponsored and six run by the state government. To ensure timely disbursement of pensions, the government has set up a separate revolving fund of INR 100 crores. Notably, there has been an 82% increase in pension beneficiaries in the state over the past four years.
Mobiles for Anganwadi Workers to Enhance Services
Addressing the need for better facilities at Anganwadi centers, the government has outlined plans to construct over 10,000 buildings using DMFT/CSR funds. These centers will be equipped with amenities such as LPG cylinders, water purifiers, and smart TVs. Moreover, more than 29,000 workers will be provided with smart mobile phones to enhance their services.
The department secretary highlighted an initiative under child welfare, wherein INR 4,000 per child is allocated for the protection and care of children facing adverse conditions. This sponsorship amount has already benefited 4,497 children. Furthermore, the department is set to initiate the recruitment process for 64 vacant positions in the Child Development Project and 444 positions for female supervisors.
These developments underscore the Jharkhand government’s commitment to addressing the diverse needs of its citizens and fostering inclusive growth.
