Manipur minister Awangbow Newmai on Tuesday launched a special scheme for widows, widowers, orphans and disabilities for Tousem and Tamei sub-division of Tamenglong district and assured to donate 65 per cent of his monthly allowance towards the fund for the scheme.
The launching function was held at Sangaithel Park and Resort in Imphal West and the forms for the schemes were handed over to the DCC coordinators of 10 segments of sub-divisions namely Kuilong, Chaton, Konphung, Tamei, Lamlaba, Tousem, Magulong, Saramba, Oinamlong and Phaitol.
For the initiative phase, the scheme targets 400 beneficiaries (130 widows, 80 widowers, 130 orphans and 30 disables) where a sum of Rs 500 per month will be provided as assistance to the beneficiaries in the form of DBT.
“The fund for the schemes will be from the 65 per cent of my monthly allowance and the contributions from my fellow supporters and well-wishers,” the minister said while speaking at the launching function. The scheme will continue until the completion of his five-year tenure as an MLA, he said.
Considering the geographical location, lack of modern facilities and low economy, the Tamei and Tousem sub-divisions have become one of the most backward sub-divisions in terms of development, the minister said.
Moreover, the number of orphans and widows are very high due to high mortality rate in the wake of lack of healthcare facilities and awareness, he added.
Stating that the scheme will at least give a little support to those in need, the minister assured to increase the amount and the number of beneficiaries by next year.
As per the model of the scheme, the DBT amount will be released from July 1 onwards and it will be managed by cells constituted by the 52-AC MLA office in the eight DCC segments and the recommendation for the beneficiaries will be given by the respective village chairmen.
The launching function was also attended by caretaker chairman of Tamenglong Autonomous District Council (ADC) Namsinrei Panmei.
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