A massive initiative of the government to provide financial assistance to the aged and the physically handicapped persons in Telangana got under way with Chief Minister K. Chandrasekhar Rao launching the scheme named ‘Aasara’ here on Saturday.
The government is to spend nearly Rs. 4,000 crore annually under this scheme with which the ruling TRS hopes to further consolidate its base in the newly-formed State. “No eligible person will be left uncovered under this scheme,” declared Mr. Rao.
The social security scheme, which enables old aged persons and widows to get Rs. 1,000 a month and physically challenged people Rs. 1,500 a month, was launched in all districts by ministers and legislators. Nearly 44 lakh people had applied for these pensions and the government machinery is now busy in screening the applications to identify the genuine beneficiaries by this month end.
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Addressing a large gathering of beneficiaries here, Mr. Rao recalled that when the TRS manifesto committee recommended a smaller amount, he reminded it that the money was to be paid for a purpose and not as charity.