Jagan issues key directions on pensions to mentally challenged

AMARAVATI: Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister YS Jaganmohan Reddy on Monday instructed officials to consider the temporary certificates issued by psychiatrists for pensions to mentally challenged people. His directions came during a review meeting of the Child and Women Welfare Department held here.

The Chief Minister said that the temporary certificates issued by doctors should also be considered for giving pensions to mentally challenged persons and the eligibility list should be updated by July and December. "Those with temporary certificates will be eligible for pensions this December," added Jagan.

The Chief Minister said that special focus should be placed on monitoring juvenile homes under the supervision of a special IAS officer. "One Bhavitha Centre in each Assembly constituency should be upgraded for disabled persons and if necessary, the services should be extended at Village and Ward Secretariats," emphasized Jagan.

The Chief Minister also highlighted the need for training students under the Anganwadi scheme. "Students should be trained in correct pronunciation and their academic curriculum should be strictly implemented in PP-1 and PP-2. Bilingual textbooks should also be in place," asserted the chief minister. He also added that the School Maintenance Fund (SMF) and Toilet Maintenance Fund (TMF) should be developed under the Anganwadi scheme.

The Chief Minister, while also reviewing the purchase and distribution mechanism, said that students should be given quality food and proper checks about the same should be maintained. It was decided in the meeting that the purchase and distribution should be done through Markfed on a pilot basis with third-party surveillance."

"Sortex rice should be used in mid-day meals in Anganwadis," ordered Jagan. He added that special attention should be laid to achieve the Sustainable Development Goals and the phone numbers that were generated to lodge complaints should also be displayed at all Anganwadis. Stressing the need for annihilating child marriages, Jagan said that YSR Kalayanamasthu launched by the AP government would work towards it.

The officials also briefed the chief minister about the vacancies in Anganwadi that are set to be filled by September 30. The chief minister ordered them to carry out the process with utmost transparency.