Peshawar: The Khyber Pakhtunkhwa government has initiated a financial assistance program worth PKR 370 million to support special persons across the province. Under this initiative, 37,000 special individuals will each receive PKR 10,000.
The program was inaugurated by Chief Minister Ali Amin Gandapur during a ceremony held at the Chief Minister’s House. The event was attended by the Minister for Social Welfare Syed Qasim Ali Shah, members of the National and Provincial Assemblies, special persons, and other guests.
During the ceremony, the Chief Minister distributed financial aid checks among special individuals. He announced that the term "disabled" would no longer be used in official documents and would be replaced with "special persons."
The Chief Minister emphasized the unique talents and capabilities of special persons and highlighted the need to create opportunities for them. He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting all vulnerable segments of society, stating that no one would be left without government assistance under his administration.
Data collection of deserving individuals, including special persons, widows, and orphans, is underway to ensure sustainable welfare programs. These initiatives are being incorporated into the regular budget to ensure continuity.
Key programs under this initiative include:
- Provision of Electric Wheelchairs: Special government employees and university students will be prioritized in the first phase.
- Increased Dowry Fund: The dowry fund has been increased from PKR 25,000 to PKR 200,000.
- Doubled Zakat Assistance: The financial aid provided under Zakat has been doubled.
- Ration Cards for Elderly and Widows: The government will issue ration cards to support elderly and widowed women.
- Orphan and Destitute Children Welfare Program: A comprehensive program to care for orphans and the homeless is being introduced.
- Modern Old Age Homes: Senior citizens will benefit from state-of-the-art facilities.
- Shelter Homes for Transgender Persons: A safe and dignified living environment will be provided for the transgender community.
This program will prove to be a highly effective initiative in providing relief to the underprivileged segments of society in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa. It aims to bring ease and support to these vulnerable groups, ensuring their needs are addressed and their challenges minimized. Such efforts reflect a significant step towards social welfare and community upliftment in the region.
