Minister for Social Welfare, Forest, Ecology and Environment, Bali Bhagat Monday laid foundation of various developmental works, including a lane, drain at lower Thather, boundary walls at Higher Secondary School, Domana, High School Kheri and upgradation of roads in Bhalwal block that shall be constructed at an estimated cost of Rs 91 lakh by Rural Development Department under MGNREGA.Speaking on the occasion, the Minister said that PDP-BJP coalition has taken various measures for up-gradating civic amenities in the State adding that focus is being paid on improving road network, bridges, power and health sectors in cities as well as in rural areas.Mr. Bali said government is committed to develop all areas in the State on modern lines. He said that government is making all efforts to ensure effective implementation of various welfare schemes so that the benefit trickles down to the most deserving. He added that total convergence plan of Bhalwal block of Rs 1.8 crore is under progress.
The Minister called for attitudinal change in the society especially towards women, and to help them contribute towards socio-economic development of the country. He said decreasing sex ratio in the country is an alarming sign and there is immediate need to address the menace of female foeticide, which if remain unchecked shall have dangerous consequences.Bali said the government has launched Ladli Beti scheme under which, girls born on or after April 1st 2015 shall get Rs 6.5 lakh on attaining the age of 21 years. Girl child born to parents whose annual income is less than Rs.75000 per annum will be eligible under the scheme.The Minister also highlighted another scheme AASRA, which is also a social assistance scheme aimed at insuring low-income group families having annual income less than Rs.75000. In case of the death of the bread earner, widows and destitute, Rs. 2 lakh will be provided while Rs. 1 lakh will be provided in case of disability due to injury.Among others, senior officers of concerned departments, BDO Bhalwal, Sarpanch and Panchs were also present on the occasion.