ADC Anmol Singh Dhaliwal orders social audit of old-age homes

Ludhiana, July 5, 2024: Additional Deputy Commissioner (D) Anmol Singh Dhaliwal has ordered the social audit of all old-age homes under the jurisdiction of Ludhiana. He also directed the local officials of the transport department/roadways/PRTC to ensure free bus travel for attendants of visually impaired people in government buses. 

The social audit will complete by September 30, 2024 and the same will be reviewed in next quarterly meeting. 

In a meeting regarding the empowerment of specially-abled persons, implementation of provisions of the Rights of Persons with Disabilities Act, 2016 and the welfare of senior citizen and maintenance act 2007, Dhaliwal emphasized the Punjab government's commitment to safeguarding the interests of senior citizens. After the completion of the social audit, the administration will enrol every eligible person residing in old-aged homes under the pension scheme, which provides Rs 1500 to women of 58 years of age and above, and to men of 65 years of age and above. 

Furthermore, all old-age homes have been directed to display information regarding grants or financial aid being provided to their homes on a notice board. Additionally, the local officials of the transport department/roadways/PRTC have been asked to ensure free bus travel for attendants of visually impaired people in government buses to enhance the mobility and independence of visually impaired persons. 

Dhaliwal also emphasized the need for upcoming government buildings to meet accessibility standards and for existing government buildings to have ramp facilities. He also reviewed the coverage of Unique Disability for the Health Department for 100 percent UDID coverage for all specially-abled persons through special camps.