Six Vanarmare tribals to get welfare benefits for first time

Panaji: For the first time, members of the Vanarmare tribal community of Nirankal will receive regular financial assistance under a govt welfare scheme.

Govt has sanctioned the Dayanand Social Security Scheme (DSSS) for six tribals from the community, comprising three senior citizens aged 65 to 67 years, and three persons with disabilities aged 45, 48, and 54 years.

Last month, the social welfare department went out to meet the community and observed that none of them were availing themselves of any social welfare schemes.

“They will begin receiving Rs 2,000 each under the scheme from July, which will be credited to them in Aug,” director of social welfare Ajit Panchwadlar told TOI. “Rs 2,000 is a huge amount for them considering their present living conditions. This money will help take care of their needs, including medication, and earn them respect in their families. Taking this money back home will turn them into an important member of their families,” he said.

“This is not a one-time gift. This is the first time the govt has reached out to them to extend a govt welfare scheme,” Panchwadkar said. The govt is also looking at proper housing for them and is considering rehabilitating them.