The Arunachal Pradesh government, led by Chief Minister Pema Khandu, has approved an expansion of the Chief Minister’s Bal Seva Scheme (CMBSS) and an increase in pensions under the Chief Minister’s Social Security Scheme (CMSSS). The decision, made during a state cabinet meeting on Wednesday, aims to provide financial support to orphans, senior citizens, widows, and people with disabilities, according to an official statement.
Financial Assistance for Orphans
The cabinet has broadened the scope of CMBSS to cover all registered orphaned children in the state. Initially launched to support children orphaned during the COVID-19 pandemic, the scheme will now benefit a wider category, including:
- Children registered under the Baal Swaraj Portal
- Residents of child care institutions
- Those classified as ‘children in need of care and protection’ under the Juvenile Justice (Care and Protection of Children) Act, 2015
Under the revised scheme, each eligible orphaned child will receive ₹1,500 per month until they turn 18 years old. Additionally, students enrolling in Class 11, college, or vocational courses will be provided with a laptop or tablet to aid their education. The initiative will also work alongside the central Mission Vatsalya scheme to ensure further assistance.
Pension Hike Under CMSSS
The cabinet has also approved an increase in pensions under CMSSS, covering senior citizens, widows, and persons with disabilities. The revised pensions include:
- Old-age pension:
- ₹2,800 per month for individuals aged 60-79 years
- ₹3,000 per month for individuals aged 80 and above
- Widow pension:
- ₹2,200 per month for those aged 60-79 years
- ₹3,200 per month for those above 80 years
- Disability pension:
- ₹2,800 per month for those below 80 years
- ₹3,100 per month for those 80 and above
Additionally, the eligibility age for widow pension has been reduced from 40 years to 18 years, ensuring that younger widows also receive financial assistance.
Impact and Budget Allocation
The enhanced social security measures are expected to benefit over 50,000 people across the state, with an estimated annual expenditure of ₹18.50 crore. The cabinet’s decision underscores the state government’s commitment to strengthening social welfare policies and providing essential financial aid to vulnerable sections of society.
Sources By Agencies